Steph Curry’s latest scoring explosion came in a game that Golden State Warriors fans would rather forget, but it still added to his remarkable legacy.
In Sunday’s matchup in Portland, Curry delivered another vintage offensive masterclass, dropping 48 points on 16 for 26 shooting with 12 triples in spite of the Warriors’ 136-131 defeat to the Trail Blazers. Even though Golden State came up short, Curry’s performance reinforced why he is considered one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
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His ability to dominate from long range and put relentless pressure on defenses continues to amaze fans and analysts alike.
The Warriors entered the 2025-26 season with high expectations after the addition of Jimmy Butler to a core already featuring Curry and Draymond Green. At various points, it seemed Golden State could be a serious contender in the Western Conference.
Early-season results, however, have been inconsistent, leaving the team below .500 and struggling to maintain momentum. Despite Curry‘s scoring heroics, the team has yet to consistently translate individual brilliance into victories, raising concerns about its ability to compete with the top contenders in the West.
Curry’s historic record in a tough loss
Curry‘s 48-point night did more than just boost his scoring totals – it pushed him past Michael Jordan for the most games with 40 or more points after turning 30, a milestone no other player has reached. With this outing, Curry now has 45 such games, eclipsing Jordan‘s long-standing record of 44.
Remarkably, this is the second consecutive game in which Curry has broken a record previously held by Jordan. Against the Timberwolves on Friday, he became the all-time leader in 30-point games since turning 30, surpassing Jordan‘s mark of 94 such games.
What makes Curry‘s achievements even more impressive is the stage of his career. Few players in NBA history have maintained such a high level of scoring efficiency into their mid-to-late 30s. His combination of three-point shooting and off-ball movement keeps defenders constantly on edge.
Even in losses, Curry produces performances that leave fans and analysts marveling at his skill, reaffirming his status as one of the most prolific and influential scorers in the modern era.
Yet, despite Curry‘s historic feats, the Warriors’ team struggles cannot be ignored. Defensive lapses, inconsistent rotations, and difficulties in closing out tight games have overshadowed Curry‘s brilliance.
For Golden State to fulfill its championship aspirations, the team must complement Curry‘s scoring with stronger defense and contributions from supporting players. Otherwise, even the greatest offensive performances in NBA history may not be enough to turn the tide for the Dubs this season.
Curry‘s 48-point night in Portland serves as both a reminder of his unparalleled talent and a stark illustration of the Warriors’ current challenges. While history will remember Curry‘s scoring records, the team’s collective performance this season will ultimately define their legacy.
