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Stephen Curry cites Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls leadership style as an influence

Warriors star attributes leadership style to Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls days
Warriors star attributes leadership style to Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls days

Image source: Marca

Over the past decade, Stephen Curry has become one of the NBA’s greatest players, and his meteoric rise can be credited to Michael Jordan. 

The Last Dance 

Like many others, Stephen Curry looked up to Michael Jordan, especially during his time with the Chicago Bulls, which was documented in the Netflix series The Last Dance. 

The Warriors star was recently asked about his leadership style, which he compared to Michael Jordan’s. 

“[Jordan] never asked anybody on his team or in the organization to do anything that he wouldn’t do himself,” said Curry.

“Set the bar for what work ethic was and that grind. He tried to set the pace with his actions.”

“I’ve always carried that with me as the standard for what I expect from my teammates and people, that I lived up to that as well and I set the pace there.” 

Read also: Stephen Curry GOAT Debates Run Amok as He Chases Fourth Title

Michael Jordan 

Although the two are different, Curry and Jordan have shown that they are fierce contenders in the game, and Curry, who mimics the Bulls’ leadership style, fits.

Michael Jordan played an influential role in launching the Chicago Bulls dynasty in the 1990s. 

Not only was he competitive, but he constantly pushed his teammates to go the extra mile. 

Jordan’s ethics were best seen on the court, as he consistently posted incredible numbers and led the Bulls to six championships. 

The Bulls star earned him the nickname GOAT, a similar title given to Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. 

Stephen Curry 

The Warriors star received similar praise and displayed similar qualities to Jordan, James and Bryant. He has been seen working on his game in private racing. 

Fellow Warriors Kevon Looney has revealed that Curry is already pushing the team to focus on next season with the goal of retaining the NBA championship title. 

Although Curry has been criticized for his weaknesses, he has managed to turn things around and turn them into strengths. 

One of the criticisms of the Warriors star was his defensive contribution. 

In 2016, Stephen Curry led the championship with 2.1 steals per game and continues to improve his defense each season.

Read also: Portland Timbers bring home the victory against Austin FC

The “best player” debate 

Like most players, Stephen Curry has been the subject of debate in recent years. 

Shaquille O’Neal is among those who call the Warriors player the “best player in the NBA,” citing his drive to improve his game every season. 

Meanwhile, others wave him away. 

However, the fact that Stephen Curry “just won” should guarantee him a place on the shortlist of the best players in the world.

Reference:

Steph uses great MJ quote as foundation for leadership style.

Opinions expressed by Portland News contributors are their own.