Jimmy Butler, recently traded to the Golden State Warriors, surprised many by attending the American Century Championship charity golf tournament to back his teammate Stephen Curry. The event took place in South Lake Tahoe and marked Curry’s return to the tournament after missing last year due to his preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Butler’s presence underscored the growing camaraderie between the new Warriors duo, highlighting their partnership both on and off the basketball court.
Details of the Trade That United Butler and Curry
Butler’s arrival at the Warriors came through a major five-team trade executed earlier this year, which saw him join Curry and the rest of the squad. The trade sent the six-time All-Star forward to Golden State in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and a protected first-round pick. This significant roster change aimed to strengthen the Warriors’ chances for another championship run by pairing Butler with Curry, a strategy gaining early support from fans and analysts alike.
Warriors Fans Celebrate the New Dynamic Duo
Butler’s support during the golf tournament was well received by the Warriors fanbase, who shared their excitement about the promising partnership. The official Warriors NBCS account noted,
“Jimmy came to support Steph in Tahoe,”
accompanied by footage showing Butler patiently waiting on the course. Fans enthusiastically called them the “Best Duo ITL,” emphasizing their potential to lead the Warriors to future titles.
One fan expressed confidence by stating,
“I have no doubt this duo can win a championship with the right pieces around them,”
highlighting the players’ combined impact during the playoffs. Butler and Curry first showed their chemistry by delivering an impressive 56 points in the opening game of the postseason against Houston. Though the Warriors were eventually eliminated in the Western Conference semifinals by the Minnesota Timberwolves, their on-court partnership offered hope for the franchise’s direction moving forward.
Stephen Curry’s Perspective on Returning to the Tournament
After a year away from the American Century Championship, Curry reflected on his experiences and approach to the event. He shared that participating in the tournament over the past decade has shaped his expectations and mindset.
“So I’ve learned playing in this tournament for what, 10, 11 years, you have expectations, and you’re trying to, it’s almost like pulling an all-nighter for a test, trying to cram everything,”
Curry said.
He elaborated on his evolving attitude toward practice and performance, noting,
“Because, you know, I play a decent amount, but nobody ever says, ‘I play enough golf or practice enough.’ So as long as I have a good idea of what I’m trying to do, I can just live with the results, which is where I’m now.”
Curry’s Performance and Butler’s Encouragement at the Event
Curry delivered a strong showing by shooting a 58 over three rounds, ultimately finishing tied for third place behind NHL star Joe Pavelski, who led the tournament from start to finish. Despite not reclaiming his previous championship title, Curry’s performance improved steadily during the event, reaching a high point in a single day with Butler cheering him on.
This support from Butler appeared to energize Curry as he moved up the leaderboard, surpassing notable participants including former NFL players Tony Romo and Adam Thielen, as well as soccer analyst Taylor Twellman. The moment demonstrated not only Curry’s competitive spirit but also the positive influence of his teammate’s encouragement during the event.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?
A. FIBA, the group in charge of Olympic basketball, used to limit player numbers to between 4 and 15 for officials’ convenience. In 2014, FIBA removed this rule, but Team USA continues to follow the old practice during international competitions like the Paris Olympics. That’s why Curry, wearing No.