Stephen Curry reflects on LeBron James friendship and NBA rivalry

Stephen Curry recently opened up about his evolving relationship with NBA rival LeBron James after their time together at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Despite LeBron’s support during their gold-medal run, Curry emphasized that their Olympic bond won’t change their fierce NBA rivalry.

In an interview with Stephen Colbert, Curry reflected on winning the gold medal and how LeBron’s encouragement helped him during critical moments.

“Positive self-talk came out like, ‘No, we are winning, I know it’s gonna come.’ As soon as I said it, LeBron walks right behind me and says, ‘Damn right it is,’ with his baritone voice,” Curry shared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

“It caught me off guard because I still had to get used to liking that guy after all our battles.”

While LeBron’s words gave Curry a confidence boost during the Olympics, Curry was quick to assert that their NBA rivalry remains unchanged.

“It came at the right time, but our NBA rivalry? Not at all,” Curry said firmly.

For 15 years, Curry and LeBron have been fierce competitors, with both stars bringing immense popularity to their respective teams.

Despite the intensity of their matchups, mutual respect has always existed.
It came at the right time, but our NBA rivalry? Not at all,” Curry said firmly.

For 15 years, Curry and LeBron have been fierce competitors, with both stars bringing immense popularity to their respective teams.

Despite the intensity of their matchups, mutual respect has always existed.

Early in Curry’s career, LeBron invited him to his home, where the two bonded. However, as Curry rose to NBA stardom, the relationship shifted into a competitive rivalry.

In a 2024 interview with The Athletic, Curry described the dynamic as “a healthy resentment of somebody that’s standing in your way.”

LeBron echoed a similar sentiment, noting, “The game of basketball doesn’t last forever. You don’t want to waste the opportunity to have a relationship with someone.”
Though they found camaraderie during the 2024 Olympics, helping Team USA win gold, Curry and LeBron will once again be on opposing sides when the NBA season begins.

Their rivalry remains as strong as ever, despite the respect they share.