DeMar DeRozan has urged young basketball players to resist trying to replicate Steph Curry’s distinctive playstyle, emphasizing the importance of developing their own skills instead. This warning comes amid Curry’s tremendous influence on a generation of athletes since the 2010s, which has shifted many players’ focus from attacking the basket to prioritizing three-point shooting.
DeRozan, a member of the 2009 NBA draft class alongside Curry, James Harden, and Jrue Holiday, acknowledged Curry’s undeniable talent but stressed that no one should expect to be the next Steph Curry. Curry’s impact on basketball is exceptional, yet DeRozan believes young players must chart their own paths rather than chase an ideal that few can replicate.
DeRozan Highlights Curry’s Extraordinary Talent and Olympic Performance
Steph Curry’s remarkable abilities were on display during the 2024 Olympic gold medal game against France, demonstrating skills that are far from ordinary. DeRozan pointed out that Curry’s exceptional level of play is unique, cautioning that young athletes should avoid feeling pressured to mirror his game.
I never want young guys that’s coming up to feel discouraged, like they’ve got to go out there and be Steph Curry,
DeRozan said on 7 PM in Brooklyn.
Everybody’s just not going to be Steph Curry. It’s one Steph Curry.
—DeMar DeRozan
The Pitfalls of Imitating Curry’s Game Too Closely
Having competed against Curry numerous times over their 16 seasons in the NBA, DeRozan has witnessed the trend of players trying to copy Curry’s style with limited success. While Curry’s three-point shooting exploits are extraordinary, many young players and parents chase what DeRozan describes as “fool’s gold” in attempting to emulate the Golden State Warriors star.
What he’s able to do is incredible. I think we would never see nobody else like that,
DeRozan declared, underscoring Curry’s singular talent.
Curry leads the NBA in three-pointers made and shows no sign of slowing down, likely setting a record that will be difficult to surpass. However, most players who try to model their game after him fail to achieve comparable results.
Comparison with Other Players Following Curry’s Footsteps
Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young is often cited as a player with a similar penchant for deep shooting, but his overall style differs significantly from Curry’s. While many players attempt to mimic Curry’s shooting ability, their similarities usually end there. Curry is renowned for his off-ball movement and exceptional stamina, qualities that contribute to his success beyond mere shooting.
Finding Your Own Strength on the Court
DeRozan encourages players to discover and develop their unique strengths rather than adopt someone else’s method of play. Curry’s expertise lies in three-point shooting, but DeRozan found his niche in a different domain within basketball.
So from my standpoint, I try to be a statesman when it comes to the mid-range to show that if you’re great at this, you could still be successful,
DeRozan said, emphasizing the value of mastering areas of the game beyond what is trendy.
Despite league-wide shifts toward three-point shooting, DeRozan has maintained his style, reaching his 17th NBA season with consistent averages above 20 points per game for the past 12 seasons. He serves as an example of how players can thrive by remaining true to their natural game rather than conforming to fleeting trends.
The Broader Message for Young Athletes and Parents
DeRozan’s message resonates beyond individual players to families and coaches guiding young talent. His advice urges a focus on individual growth, skill development, and authenticity in play style. This approach can lead to sustainable success, unlike chasing an ideal that fits only a select few.
As Steph Curry continues to redefine what is possible in basketball, DeRozan’s perspective offers a grounded alternative: celebrate your strengths, build on them, and avoid the trap of imitation. The future of basketball depends on originality as much as on innovation.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Drake say to DeMar DeRozan?
A. During the 2017-18 season with the Raptors, DeRozan tried 3.6 three-point shots per game, more than ever before in his career. He made 31.0 percent of these shots. Despite shooting more from three-point range, his overall scoring decreased.