Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry reflects on longevity, legacy and one more title run
LAIE, Hawaii (KGO) -- Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry said he is adjusting to a "new normal" as he manages a knee condition while preparing for his 18th NBA season, adding that he remains focused on helping his team compete and pursuing another championship.
In an interview with ABC7 Eyewitness News sports anchor Larry Beil during training camp in Hawaii, Curry addressed concerns about his knees after being seen with ice bags following practice. He downplayed the issue, calling it maintenance rather than a sign of a looming retirement.
"All maintenance," Curry said. "I think there's a running joke in the locker room. I think five bags after practice means you should retire. So I'm only at two, so we're good. I got plenty to work with."
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When asked about dealing with what was described as runner's knee, Curry acknowledged the challenge but said understanding the condition has helped him manage it.
"It's a concern but it's something that now that I know what it is you can kind of get ahead of it and manage it in a way that allows me to do what I need to do on the court be available for my team," Curry said. "It is a new normal I'm not afraid of saying that because I kind of know what I'm dealing with. This requires me to approach things a little differently, but still play."
Curry also discussed speculation surrounding his recent contract extension and reports about his future. He said outside noise has not affected him or those around the organization.
"Nobody knows, and I think that's the beauty of this organization and what we've built here is there is a genuine curiosity around how this is gonna end," Curry said. "The chatter never really gets to us."
He described contract discussions as "a great partnership" between himself and the front office, saying both sides worked to balance his interests with the team's long-term competitiveness.
Curry said the focus remains on the daily work required to compete.
"Of course I want to win," he said. "Winning a championship is the ultimate goal. It's honestly the only real thing that is a motivator for why you work so hard."
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Curry acknowledged the challenges facing the team but said players are committed to the effort required.
"We know that this team is in a challenge, an uphill battle, to put it all together," he said. "And that's a challenge that we want to accept. And if it happens, it's not because of a lack of effort."
Reflecting on the longevity of his career, Curry said his advice to his younger self would be simple.
"Just be a kid and remain, keep the joy of the game," he said. "The reason I'm able to still do this is because I love playing basketball."
The veteran guard also shared lighter moments during the interview, crediting his wife, Ayesha Curry, for his favorite pregame meals and naming former President Barack Obama, Justin Thomas and Roger Steele among those he would choose for a dream golf foursome outside his family.
As for retirement, Curry joked he is still a long way from the locker-room benchmark.
"If you see me with five, then you tap me on my shoulder and say, hey, we're done here," Curry said. "Brother, you'll see me with six."
