The Splash Brothers, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, are renowned for their incredible shooting abilities and have left an indelible mark on the NBA. Playing together for the Golden State Warriors from 2011 to 2024, they set numerous records and won multiple championships. This article explores the impact and achievements of this iconic duo.
Origins and Formation
Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson both hail from athletic families, with their fathers having successful NBA
careers. Despite not being highly recruited out of high school, both players excelled in college basketball before joining the Warriors. Curry was drafted seventh overall in 2009, while Thompson was selected 11th overall in 2011.
The duo's formation began in earnest when the Warriors traded Monta Ellis, allowing Curry to lead the team and Thompson to fill the shooting guard position. Their chemistry and complementary skills quickly became evident, leading to their nickname, the Splash Brothers, due to their ability to consistently "splash" the net with three-point shots.
Record-Breaking Performances
The Splash Brothers are celebrated for their record-breaking performances in the NBA. In the 2012-13 season, they combined to make 483 three-pointers, setting a new league record. Curry set an individual record with 272 three-pointers, while Thompson added 211. Their shooting prowess continued to shine as they extended their combined record to 484 three-pointers the following season.
Their success was not limited to regular-season play. In the 2015 NBA Finals, they helped the Warriors secure their first championship in 40 years. Curry won the NBA MVP award, and both players were named to the All-NBA Team, marking the first time Warriors teammates achieved this honor since 1991-92.
Legacy and Impact
The Splash Brothers' legacy extends beyond their on-court achievements. They revolutionized the game with their emphasis on three-point shooting, influencing teams across the league to adopt similar strategies. Their ability to score from long range changed the dynamics of basketball, making the three-point shot a central element of modern play.
Their partnership also contributed to the Warriors' dominance, resulting in four NBA championships and six Finals appearances. The duo's impact on the game is undeniable, as they set records for three-pointers made in a season, playoffs, and Finals. Their influence continues to be felt, inspiring future generations of players to emulate their style.
The Splash Brothers remain a symbol of excellence in the NBA, showcasing the power of teamwork and skill. Their journey together has been marked by triumphs and records, solidifying their place in basketball history as one of the greatest duos to ever play the game.
