Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski is embracing the challenge of the formidable legacy left by Stephen Curry, aiming not only to emulate the NBA superstar but to surpass him. The 21-year-old made headlines this week with his ambitious declaration of wanting to be better than Curry, widely celebrated as the greatest shooter in basketball history. In an interview with NBC Sports Bay Area, Podziemski acknowledged the difficulty of this aspiration, stating, “I want to maximize my talent in the league and get as much out of it as I can.”
Such a bold statement from a young player shines a light on the confidence and competitive spirit that has defined the Warriors’ dynasty. Podziemski’s determination to embrace this mindset instead of shying away illustrates his alignment with the team’s values. Last season, he demonstrated his potential on the court, averaging 10.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 44.9 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from three-point range. For a rookie contributing off the bench amidst a roster of seasoned veterans, these statistics are commendable.
Yet, Podziemski recognizes the magnitude of Curry’s accomplishments. By the fifth season in his career, Curry was already an All-Star; by his sixth, he had claimed the MVP title; and by his seventh, he became the first player in history to earn a unanimous MVP award. Curry’s accolades include four NBA championships, two MVP awards, ten All-Star selections, and a Finals MVP that have sealed his legendary status. Setting such a high bar for himself, Podziemski’s confidence shines through as he mentions Curry as a benchmark.
Rather than coming across as arrogant, Podziemski’s ambition reflects his drive for improvement. He understands that achieving the level of shooting accuracy, consistency, and long-term success that Curry has attained will require years of dedication and discipline. By stating his goal to surpass Curry, Podziemski conveys a clear message: he is determined not to be just another role player but aspires to greatness.
Curry, known for his humility and willingness to mentor younger players, would likely find Podziemski’s ambition commendable. He has consistently encouraged his teammates to push their limits and strive for excellence, even if that means one day being outshone.
While the future remains uncertain, Podziemski’s aspirations offer a glimpse into the hopeful trajectory of the Warriors’ next generation. As the dynasty faces the inevitable challenges of aging, the spirit of relentless competition and a commitment to personal growth continues to thrive. For Brandin Podziemski, chasing the legacy of Stephen Curry could very well fuel the ongoing fire of the Golden State Warriors’ legacy.