throughout NBA history, many legendary backcourts have made their mark on the game. Duos like Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher, Tony Parker and Manu Ginóbili, and Isaiah Thomas and Joe Dumars are just a few examples of players whose extraordinary talents have defined the hardwood. These players are icons, etched into basketball history, their legacies echoing through time.
At the pinnacle of NBA backcourts stand Steph Curry and Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors, famously known as the “Splash Brothers.” Their journey to greatness is nothing short of miraculous. Underestimated and often overlooked, they defied expectations through sheer will and determination, becoming a symbol of excellence. Their achievements will be passed down through generations, cementing their place in basketball lore.
A Miraculous Journey
The rise of the Splash Brothers is a story that began with perseverance. Curry, often criticized early in his career for his slight frame and injury-prone ankles, and Thompson, a quiet yet deadly shooter, became one of the most dynamic and feared backcourts in the history of the league. Together, they revolutionized the game by redefining the value of the three-point shot.
Steph Curry, a 6’3″ guard from Davidson College, was drafted seventh overall by the Warriors in 2009. Despite his hesitations about joining the team, Curry quickly made an impact with his incredible shooting ability. His record-breaking performances—such as his 54-point game at Madison Square Garden—were early indicators of the transformative player he would become.
Klay Thompson, drafted two years later in 2011, brought a unique combination of size, shooting, and defense to the team. Initially reserved, Thompson’s calm demeanor on the court belied the fiery competitor within. While he and Curry didn’t interact much off the court during their early years together, they bonded through their shared passion for the game and their desire to become the best shooters in NBA history.
Despite their potential, many doubted the Warriors’ ability to win a championship based on a jump-shooting offense. Charles Barkley, a vocal critic, famously claimed that jump-shooting teams couldn’t win championships. But the Splash Brothers proved their doubters wrong, leading the Warriors to new heights.
By 2015, Curry and Thompson had solidified their place among the league’s elite. That season, they led the Warriors to their first NBA Championship in 40 years, defeating LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Curry’s unrivaled shooting range and Thompson’s ability to explode offensively, as seen in his record-setting 37-point quarter, became the foundation of the Warriors’ offensive prowess.
Breaking Records
The Splash Brothers shattered records with their shooting. Curry broke the NBA record for three-pointers in a season, only to surpass it himself multiple times. Klay Thompson, meanwhile, set the record for the most three-pointers made in a single game, hitting 14 in 2018. Their dominance from beyond the arc redefined how teams approached offense and defense.
Together, Curry and Thompson turned the Warriors into a dynasty, winning multiple championships and reshaping the NBA. Their impact extended far beyond individual accolades—teams across the league began to emulate the Warriors’ style, focusing on spacing, pace, and the three-point shot.
Challenges and Resilience
However, every story has its challenges. In 2019, during the NBA Finals, Klay Thompson tore his ACL, a devastating injury that sidelined him for over a year. The following season, Steph Curry broke his hand, leaving the Warriors without their two stars. Then, as Thompson was preparing for a comeback in 2020, he ruptured his Achilles, compounding the setback.
These injuries tested the resolve of both players, but they remained determined to return to the court. Curry carried the Warriors through difficult times, and Thompson, ever the warrior, worked tirelessly through grueling rehab sessions to make his eventual comeback.
The Legacy of the Splash Brothers
Despite the setbacks, the Splash Brothers’ legacy is secure. Their partnership has brought multiple championships to Golden State and forever changed the way the game is played. Their ability to shoot the basketball with precision and confidence has set a new standard, influencing future generations of players.
While the journey of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson continues, their place in NBA history is already assured. They are not just players who revolutionized basketball—they are legends whose influence will be felt for decades to come.
