Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry recently identified Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant as the most athletic player currently in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA, emphasizing his elite physical abilities during an appearance on Good Good Golf. This recognition places Morant above some of the league’s most renowned athletes.
Curry spoke without hesitation, naming Morant as the standout athlete when asked who holds that title in the league. He compared Morant to other explosive athletes like Russell Westbrook and John Wall, noting that all three possess more than just dunking talent; their quickness, agility, and ability to change direction with ease contribute to their athletic supremacy.
I think, pound for pound, he’s the most athletic dude in the league. Russell Westbrook when he was full prime Russ. John Wall. We always talk about those guys as being the most athletic in the league.
—Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors player
Curry also reflected on his own career, admitting that lacking elite athleticism forced him to develop his skills to compete at a high level.
I would put myself in that category, I had to overcome the lack of athleticism because I didn’t have none of that. So, I had to pick up skills to [overcompensate].
—Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors player
Ja Morant’s Upcoming Season Seen as Crucial for His Career
Morant’s career has been marred by multiple absences due to injuries and suspension, missing 125 games over the past three seasons. In the 2024-25 campaign, he appeared in only 50 games, a significant drop from previous years. This inconsistency has raised concerns about his reliability among fans and analysts alike.
Despite these setbacks, many predict Morant will rebound strongly during the 2025-26 season. However, this could be a pivotal year for him, potentially his last with the Grizzlies if he cannot maintain his performance and availability. Memphis legend Zach Randolph remains hopeful about Morant’s impact on the franchise.
Randolph emphasized Morant’s unique talent and importance to the team, urging him to keep persevering through tough times.
I always say he’s special. We need him in Memphis. That’s the city, that’s the team [he’s] everything. He’s one of the best players in the NBA right now. I just think [because of] the things he been through, I just tell him, you going to be all right. Just keep your head up.
—Zach Randolph, Memphis Grizzlies legend
Stephen Curry Shows Confidence in Warriors Despite Quiet Offseason
While the Grizzlies face uncertain moments with Morant’s health and consistency, their Western Conference rivals, the Golden State Warriors, have had a notably quiet 2025-26 offseason. The team had yet to make any new free agent signings and only reported nine confirmed roster spots by mid-July, including restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
Despite the silence on the roster front, Curry expressed strong confidence in the organization’s plans and ability to form a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
The narrative outside versus the narrative inside might not always be the same,
Curry told NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole.
We talk. We have communication. I know what’s going on to the point where I have a lot of confidence in our ability to put together a winning team next year. That’s all I want.
—Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors player
Many believe the Warriors’ major roster upgrade occurred earlier in the season with the acquisition of Jimmy Butler III at the 2025 trade deadline, giving them a stronger foundation heading into the new campaign.
What the Future Holds for Both Stars and Their Teams
Stephen Curry’s praise of Ja Morant’s athleticism not only highlights Morant’s unique physical talents but also sets the stage for what could be a pivotal season for the Grizzlies star. Meanwhile, Curry’s assurance of Golden State’s internal confidence contrasts with the external perception of a quiet offseason, suggesting a calculated strategy behind the scenes.
The upcoming 2025-26 NBA season will test Morant’s durability and commitment, as pressure mounts for him to validate his place among the best players in the league. For the Warriors, maintaining their competitive edge while integrating new and existing talent will be crucial to their playoff aspirations.
As these narratives unfold, NBA fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Morant’s athletic prowess and Curry’s leadership influence their teams’ trajectories.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?
A. FIBA, the body in charge of Olympic basketball, once limited player numbers to 4-15 to help officials manage the games. In 2014, FIBA removed this rule, but Team USA continues this practice in international competitions, such as the Paris Olympics. This is the reason Curry has his specific number.