Throughout his 17-year NBA career, Stephen Curry has shared the court with some of the most talented basketball players in history. His extensive experience and Hall of Fame-level achievements make him a knowledgeable voice in debates about basketball IQ. Recently, Curry revealed the two players he believes showcase the highest basketball IQ he has ever witnessed during an appearance on 360 with Speedy.
Curry Identifies LeBron James and Chris Paul as Top Minds in the Game
When asked about the players with the greatest basketball IQ, Curry named LeBron James and Chris Paul, praising their ability to control and orchestrate the game at an elite level. He said,
“Between [Chris Paul] and [LeBron James], those two — and it’s the way they play, obviously, but the way they talk, the way they can orchestrate an offense,”
explaining further,
“[LeBron’s] the one that controls the tempo the greatest, and [Paul’s] the one that every possession he knows what he’s trying to get out of it. At [Paul’s] peak it was insane, he could get his bucket, could get somebody a lob, drop down pass. … Those two are top of mind with highest IQ.”
—Stephen Curry, NBA Player
These selections are widely accepted, as LeBron James is known for his unmatched ability to influence every element of a game, from pace control to decision-making. Chris Paul stands out as one of the sharpest point guards ever, mastering the finer details and consistently elevating his teammates’ performances.
Chris Paul’s Impact Even in His Later Career
Paul’s influence extends beyond his prime statistics. His leadership was key to guiding a young Oklahoma City Thunder team to the postseason during the 2020 NBA bubble in Orlando. Similarly, he transformed the Phoenix Suns from struggling underachievers into serious championship contenders. Even at 40 years old, Paul remains highly sought-after due to his strategic understanding of basketball and ability to make teammates better.
Curry Acknowledges Teammates Who Also Exhibit High Basketball IQ
Stephen Curry also gave credit to his current Golden State Warriors teammate Draymond Green, who is recognized league-wide for his defensive skills and basketball intelligence. Although Curry did not include himself in the highest basketball IQ conversation, it is clear that his own court vision and decision-making are exceptional. His ability to read defenses, find open spaces, and navigate through screens makes him incredibly difficult to defend beyond just his shooting prowess.
Legacy of Basketball IQ and What It Means for the NBA
If one were to create a Mount Rushmore of players with outstanding basketball IQ, the names LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Stephen Curry’s own teammates would undoubtedly be featured. These players demonstrate that intelligence on the basketball court involves far more than raw talent; it requires exceptional awareness, leadership, and strategic thinking. As Curry continues to add to his Hall of Fame-worthy career, his insights shed light on the minds behind some of the NBA’s most profound impacts on the game.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?
A. FIBA is the group that runs Olympic basketball. They once limited player numbers to 4-15 to help referees. In 2014, they removed this rule. However, Team USA continues this tradition in international matches, such as the Paris Olympics. This is the reason why Curry, who wore number 4, follows this custom.