Stephen Curry, widely regarded as one of the premier talents in the NBA today, continues to impact the game significantly, having led the Golden State Warriors to four championships. Despite his offensive dominance, Curry consistently faces intense defensive pressure, as opponents frequently double-team him and attempt to limit his time with the ball. This relentless defense has not gone unnoticed, particularly by his new teammate and five-time NBA All-Star, Al Horford, who recently spoke about the constant physicality Curry endures on the court.
After joining the Warriors in the 2025 offseason, Horford experienced firsthand what it means to play alongside Curry. In an interview, Horford expressed surprise at the level of aggressiveness defenders display against Steph. He acknowledged that while star players often endure strong defense, what surprised him was the frequency and intensity of the contact Curry receives during games.
Horford commented on the unusually physical treatment, remarking,
“Man, just the amount of times that the dude gets fouled and grabbed,”
adding,
“I feel like there’s always a point of emphasis about freedom of movement, and when I wasn’t his teammate, I didn’t see him enough to know. But the way that (defenders) grab him and hang onto him and pull him constantly, if that’s happening to any other guy, they’re calling those fouls, but with him, I guess you can’t call it every time.”
He further illustrated how defenders violate typical boundaries to limit Curry’s effectiveness:
“But there’s like ways, right, Certain guys you’re able to grab a little bit, but with him it’s like they’re hugging, holding his chest, pulling him, it’s constant.”
—Al Horford, NBA All-Star
Despite facing such persistent defensive tactics, Curry remains an elite performer. This season, he is averaging 27.2 points, 4.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game, underscoring his resilience and skill on the court. His reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history makes him a prime target for defenders aiming to disrupt the Warriors’ offensive flow.
The intense defense aimed at Curry, while challenging for him, also serves as a testament to his influence in the league. Opponents understand the threat he poses and therefore apply extra pressure, sometimes crossing typical defensive boundaries. Horford’s reflections highlight the ongoing battle Curry faces every game, illustrating the physical side of basketball that often goes beyond official foul calls.
Looking forward, the Warriors’ success will likely depend on managing how defenses pressure Curry. If officials adjust their enforcement of physical fouls, it may change how defenders approach him and potentially reduce the wear on Curry’s playing style. Until then, his ability to perform under this constant strain remains a key part of his legacy and the Warriors’ competitive edge.
