National Basketball Association

That time Kevin Garnett compared Steph Curry to Michael Jordan

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Kevin Garnett once compared Stephen Curry to Michael Jordan.

Kevin Garnett has announced his retirement from the NBA after 21 years. A player only lasts that long if they’re special. And spending over two decades in the Association means you’re going to see a lot of greatness. Garnett did that.

Last November, the Golden State Warriors were in Minnesota to take on the Timberwolves. Wherever the Warriors went, it was a big deal and Stephen Curry was often the topic of conversation as he was having an incredible season. Garnett was asked about the eventual unanimous MVP.

Garnett played with both Michael Jordan and Curry. They’re two very different players, clearly, but greatness is greatness no matter what it looks like. And Garnett seems like he’s pretty qualified to determine that.

Of course, this comparison upset a lot of people because how dare anyone compare that shooter to the greatest of all-time. Of course, those people refuse to think critically and understand context and nuance. He wasn’t saying that Curry is necessarily on Jordan’s level.

He’s talking about how they control the game. And, despite what people who only watched Game 7 of the NBA Finals say, Curry was absolutely dominant this past season. The game was moving in slow motion for him. He reached a level that few ever have–Jordan is one of those guys.

Jordan changed the way the game is played. He inspired millions and helped make the NBA and the game of basketball what it is today. Curry is doing the same, in his own way. He’s not flying to the rim; he’s firing from deep. He’s changing the game and captivating fans in ways that only he can.

Garnett is an intense competitor that hates mediocrity and will always tell it how it is. The fact that he would make this comparison is pretty special for Curry. KG provides unique perspective and insight, seeing greatness and understanding what it looks like, even in early stages.