“Once you’ve got it, you never lose it.”
And last night nothing stopped Stephen Curry from shining once again in the clutch.
The Warriors star scored 17 of his 41 points in the final seven minutes to beat the Orlando Magic in overtime, 126-119.
It is his second game of the season with at least 40 points and the 77th of his 18-year NBA career.
And what is even more impressive: Curry has racked up 16 games of at least 40 points since turning 35, surpassing two legends in LeBron James (15) and Michael Jordan (12).
“It makes me proud of all the work I’ve put in, especially considering some injuries and everything else,” said Curry.
“Knowing that I can still reach a certain level is something that motivates me. Especially when it happens in a win like tonight’s, where we needed those points. I really value this longevity,” he admitted.
Stephen Curry finished with 41 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists on 13-of-19 shooting from the field, including 5-of-10 from three, and a perfect 10-of-10 from the free-throw line.
“Work ethic,” said Steve Kerr.
“Good genes. He has been blessed with a body that holds up well. But he has also earned it through strength, conditioning and excellent shape,” he added.
The Warriors needed the best of Curry to get past a Magic side that played with desperation.
The Floridians overturned a 16-point deficit to enter the final quarter with a 6-point lead.
However, an incredible run from Curry ended it all. He scored 12 points in the final 2:21 of the game, including two decisive three-pointers.
Other highlights
Warriors: Yaxel Lendeborg (23 points and 8 rebounds); Brandin Podziemski (15 points); Georges Niang (11 points).
Magic: Franz Wagner (30 points and 11 assists); Tristan da Silva (19 points); Wendell Carter Jr. (19 points); Anthony Black (18 points); Jamal Cain (18 points and 12 rebounds).
(Cover photo: Reuters)
