The Golden State Warriors faced a stiff test in the Atlanta Hawks during the NBA’s Monday night slate. They trailed by as many as 15 points in the first half, but it was a lead Atlanta would not have for long as Stephen Curry went nuclear, breaking out of what had been a bit of shooting slump to begin the season.
Curry scored 50, putting on a show against Trae Young, whom many believe is the next in line to take over the mantle as best long-range shooter in the NBA. Curry showed him firsthand that he could be waiting a long time to take that title away.
It was a masterful performance by Curry, as he made 50 percent of his shots overall and 9-of-19 from the 3-point line. He also sunk all 13 of his free throw attempts. The rest of his stat line was stuffed as well, as he pulled down seven rebounds, handed out 10 assists, swiped three steals, and even added one block in 35 minutes of play.
Curry got rolling from the start, going on a 10-0 run by himself, and carried that momentum throughout the game. The fans at Chase Center chanted ‘MVP’ throughout the night, as Curry looks well on his way to competing for the award again this season.
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Head coach Steve Kerr was in awe of the performance.
“That was just a stunning performance by Steph,” coach Steve Kerr said. “… He was amazing. I want to say I’ve never seen anything like it but I’ve been watching it for seven years, so I have seen something like it and still, it’s just incredible to watch.”
With his performance against the Hawks, Curry became the oldest player in NBA history at 33-years old to record a 50-10 game. The previous record was held by Wilt Chamberlain, who did it at 31-years old.
It was also the 10th time in his career that Curry broke the 50-point mark, and he was the third Warrior to have a 50-point, 10-assist game, joining the aforementioned Chamberlain and Rick Barry.
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This great night almost ended before it really got started, as Curry jammed his shoulder in the first quarter. He was cleared to return and the rest is history.
“I think he’s in the best shape of his life,” Kerr said of Curry. “The last few years I think he’s elevated his strength and his conditioning. He’s a machine out there. He doesn’t get tired. He’s going full-bore on both ends and it’s amazing to watch him.”
You can expect more performances like this throughout the season. The Golden State Warriors have improved depth around him, but there are just some nights you let Stephen Curry cook and enjoy the impressive feats he is able to accomplish.
