Curry on Harden and the 2009 Draft Class: “Only a Few of Us Still Make a Real Difference”
Stephen Curry reflects on his relationship with James Harden and the select few players from the 2009 NBA Draft still shaping the league
There was a sense of dominance in the air in San Francisco. The Golden State Warriors dismantled the Los Angeles Clippers 98-79 in what felt like a defensive masterclass – their most complete performance of the season in terms of solidity and intensity. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, Golden State dictated both tempo and physicality, turning a potentially volatile matchup into a controlled statement win.
Jimmy Butler led the charge with 21 points and his trademark energy, while Stephen Curry orchestrated the entire show with poise – 19 points, 8 assists, and the unmistakable feeling that the game flowed entirely through his rhythm.
This time, Curry didn’t need one of his trademark 40-point explosions. Instead, he picked his spots, trusted teammates like Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski (both key in the third quarter), and kept James Harden in check on the other end – the Clippers guard finished with 20 points and 4 rebounds.
And speaking of Harden – he and Curry share a special bond through history. They’re both members of the 2009 NBA Draft class, a shrinking fraternity of veterans who still define games at the highest level.
There are only a few guys left from my draft class who are still making a real impact. I’ve got endless respect for Harden – but also for Jrue Holiday, DeMar DeRozan… guys who continue to play crucial roles even now.
Stephen Curry
Curry remains the standard – not just through talent, but through work ethic, vision, and adaptability.
This victory over the Clippers is just another chapter in that evolution. Golden State isn’t relying solely on wild three-point flurries or sudden scoring bursts anymore – they’re defending, rotating, and suffocating opponents.
The Warriors appear to have rediscovered the formula that made them special: a blend of unpredictability and control, and a rhythm that has them sitting comfortably at 4-1 to start the regular season.