Tensions once existed between LeBron James’ camp and Stephen Curry’s rise to superstardom.
NBA insider Sam Amick recently provided insight into the dynamic between James and Curry, suggesting the rivalry ran deeper than on-court competition.
Speaking on 95.7 The Game, Amick revealed that LeBron’s camp was displeased when the media began labeling Curry as the best player in the world years ago.
“LeBron’s people did not love it when people started callin’ Steph the best player in the world, and there was a tension that was real,” Amick stated, via Jason Simpson of Lakers Daily.
At the height of their rivalry, when Curry and James faced off in the NBA Finals four times between 2015 and 2018, comparisons between the two players intensified.
According to Amick, this created friction not just between the players, but also within their respective camps.
James’ camp, in particular, took issue with the praise Curry received, believing it undermined LeBron’s status as the league’s top player.
“There were on-court moments, right, where LeBron, with his massive size, is kinda bodying Steph and making sure the world sees him as less than and kinda the small, younger guy,” Amick added.
Despite this, James and Curry have since developed a solid relationship, especially highlighted by their partnership on Team USA during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The two superstars were instrumental in leading the U.S. to a gold medal, demonstrating mutual respect and camaraderie throughout the tournament.
Their cooperation on the international stage marked a stark contrast to the competitive nature of their earlier encounters in the NBA.
Amick noted that seeing them enjoy each other’s company at the Olympics was a surprising and surreal moment for those who remembered the height of their rivalry.
“It’s not a matter of them having animosity towards one another, but they were rivals,” Amick explained.
The tension from years of NBA battles seems to have dissipated, allowing the two icons to appreciate each other’s talents and contributions to the game.
Now, both players are at different stages of their careers but continue to command respect across the league.
LeBron, entering his 22nd NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers, remains a dominant force.
Curry, the face of the Golden State Warriors, is still widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in basketball history.
While their rivalry may have once been a source of tension, it is clear that time and mutual accomplishments have softened the competitive edge between the two legends.
