Comparing the basketball prowess of Seth Curry to his older brother, Stephen Curry, is an intriguing topic of discussion among NBA enthusiasts.
While both Currys exhibit impressive shooting skills, the differences that set them apart are striking.
Stephen Curry, universally hailed as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, has redefined the game with his mesmerizing three-point range and transformative impact.
In contrast, Seth Curry, while a proficient shooter himself, falls short of the historic achievements and the unique skill set possessed by his elder sibling.
This comparison explores the factors that distinguish the two brothers and the reasons behind Seth Curry not reaching the same legendary status as Steph.
Who Is Older Steph or Seth Curry?
Stephen Curry, often referred to as Steph Curry, is the older of the two Curry brothers. He was born on March 14, 1988, while his younger brother, Seth Curry, was born on August 23, 1990. Steph is approximately two years older than Seth.
Both have made their mark in the NBA, with Steph becoming one of the greatest shooters in league history, and Seth establishing himself as a skilled player in his own right.
Why Is Seth Curry Not as Good as Steph?
Comparing Seth Curry to his older brother, Stephen Curry, is a common topic of discussion among basketball enthusiasts and analysts.
While both are skilled NBA players with remarkable shooting abilities, there are several reasons why Seth Curry is not as highly regarded as Steph Curry:
1. Genetics
One of the most significant factors that sets the two apart is their genetics. Stephen Curry is often considered the greatest shooter in NBA history.
His exceptional shooting ability, combined with his quick release and range, is something that very few players, if any, can replicate.
While Seth Curry is undoubtedly a good shooter, he doesn’t possess the same natural shooting talent and range as his older brother.
2. NBA Experience
Stephen Curry has had a more extensive and successful NBA career compared to Seth. Stephen had already won multiple NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors and had established himself as one of the league’s premier players.
Seth Curry, on the other hand, had yet to achieve the same level of success.
3. Impact on the Game
Stephen Curry has not only been a great shooter but has also revolutionized the game of basketball.
His three-point shooting and ability to stretch defenses have had a profound impact on how the game is played in the modern era.
His influence on the “small ball” and the increased emphasis on three-point shooting is undeniable.
While Seth Curry is a valuable shooter, he hasn’t had the same transformative impact on the game.
4. Size and Position
Stephen Curry, despite being relatively small for an NBA player at 6’3″, has played as a point guard. His ball-handling, playmaking, and scoring ability from that position have made him a unique and versatile talent.
Seth Curry, on the other hand, is often considered a shooting guard and lacks the same playmaking ability and versatility.
5. Competition and Supporting Cast
Stephen Curry has faced tougher competition throughout his career, playing in the Western Conference and often facing the best teams in the league during the playoffs.
Additionally, he has benefited from playing alongside other All-Star caliber players such as Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.
Seth Curry has played for several teams, often in a role where he is not the primary option, which has limited his opportunities to shine.
6. Defensive Ability
Stephen Curry, while not typically recognized as a strong defender, has made significant improvements on that end of the floor over the years.
He’s often seen as a solid defender who can generate steals and play respectable on-ball defense.
Seth Curry, on the other hand, is not known for his defensive prowess and is often considered a liability on that end of the floor. This aspect of their games underscores the difference in their overall impact on the court.
7. Handle and Playmaking
Stephen Curry’s ball-handling and playmaking skills are exceptional for a guard. He can run the offense, create for his teammates, and make plays in clutch situations.
Seth Curry is a capable ball-handler, but he doesn’t possess the same level of playmaking ability and vision as his brother. This difference is a crucial factor in their respective roles within their teams.
8. Achievements and Awards
Stephen Curry has earned multiple NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards and has been named to numerous All-NBA and All-Star teams.
He also holds several NBA records for three-point shooting. In contrast, Seth Curry had yet to achieve similar individual accolades and recognition, further highlighting the gap in their respective careers.
9. Impact on Team Success
Stephen Curry has been the driving force behind the Golden State Warriors championship runs, leading his team to NBA titles in 2015, 2017, and 2018.
His leadership and ability to carry a team to the pinnacle of the sport have solidified his status as one of the game’s greatest players.
Seth Curry, while valuable to his teams, has not had the same level of impact in terms of team success or championships.
10. Career Trajectory
Stephen Curry had already established himself as a future Hall of Famer and was still at the peak of his career.
Seth Curry, on the other hand, was seen as a solid role player with the potential for growth but had not yet reached the level of his brother. The trajectory of their careers has clearly been on different paths.
How Good Is Seth Curry?
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Seth Curry was regarded as a solid and valuable player in the NBA.
His skills primarily revolved around his three-point shooting and scoring ability. However, it’s worth noting that player performance can change over time due to various factors like injury, experience, and team dynamics.
Here’s a breakdown of Seth Curry’s abilities and what made him a good player:
Three-Point Shooting
Seth Curry’s three-point shooting is one of his standout features. He has a smooth and consistent shooting stroke, which enables him to knock down threes at an impressive rate.
His ability to stretch the floor and make long-range shots makes him a valuable asset for teams looking to space the floor and open up driving lanes for their primary scorers.
Scoring
While not a prolific scorer in the same vein as some of the NBA’s elite superstars, Seth Curry is a reliable scorer who can contribute points consistently.
He’s particularly effective at scoring in catch-and-shoot situations, making him a valuable off-ball player.
His scoring versatility extends to driving to the basket and pulling up for mid-range jumpers when defenders close out on him.
Ball-Handling
Seth Curry’s ball-handling skills are notably strong for a shooting guard. This skill allows him to serve as a secondary ball-handler and create opportunities for himself and his teammates.
When needed, he can run the offense and set up plays, making him a versatile asset in the backcourt.
Versatility
Seth Curry’s ability to play both shooting guard and point guard positions adds flexibility to his team’s lineup.
This versatility allows coaches to utilize him in different roles based on the specific needs of a game.
Whether he’s coming off the bench or starting, he can adapt to his role, making him a valuable piece in various rotations.
Basketball IQ
Seth Curry’s understanding of the game is a key factor in his success. Like his brother, Stephen, he reads defenses well, understands offensive spacing, and makes intelligent decisions on the court.
This high basketball IQ contributes to his efficiency as a shooter and his ability to thrive in team-oriented systems.
Team Player
Seth Curry is often commended for his team-first mentality. He’s willing to accept different roles and responsibilities to help his team succeed.
This unselfish approach is highly valued in the NBA, as it leads to better team chemistry and overall success.
Is Seth Curry a Better Shooter than Steph?
Seth Curry is not considered a better shooter than his older brother, Stephen Curry.
While both are excellent shooters, there are several reasons why Stephen Curry is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history:
Three-Point Percentage
Stephen Curry has consistently had higher three-point shooting percentages throughout his career.
He has led the league in three-point shooting percentage on multiple occasions, often shooting well above 40% from beyond the arc. This level of efficiency is remarkable and sets him apart.
Range
Stephen Curry is known for his extraordinary shooting range. He can make three-pointers from well beyond the arc, and his ability to shoot from deep is a game-changing skill that few players in NBA history can match. His range forces defenses to guard him tightly even from great distances.
Off-the-Dribble Shooting
Stephen Curry is renowned for his ability to shoot off the dribble. His quick release and ball-handling skills make him a constant threat to pull up from long range, even with a defender in close proximity. This skill allows him to create his own shot effectively.
Volume and Record-Breaking
Stephen Curry holds numerous NBA records related to three-point shooting. He has set records for most three-pointers made in a single season and has consistently ranked among the league leaders in three-pointers made. His volume of three-point shooting is unparalleled.
Influence on the Game
Stephen Curry’s style of play has had a transformative effect on the NBA. He’s played a significant role in shifting the league’s focus toward three-point shooting and smaller lineups. His influence on the game extends beyond his shooting percentages.
Clutch Shooting
Stephen Curry is known for his clutch shooting ability. He has made critical shots in high-pressure situations, particularly in the playoffs. His ability to perform when it matters most is a testament to his shooting prowess.
Seth and Steph Curry’s Stats
Seth and Stephen Curry, commonly known as Seth and Steph, are two of the most well-known siblings in the NBA.
They are both renowned for their exceptional shooting ability, but a closer look at their career statistics reveals both similarities and differences.
Here’s a table summarizing the statistics of Seth and Stephen Curry in the NBA:
Statistic | Stephen Curry (Steph) | Seth Curry |
Points per Game (PPG) | Known for his scoring ability, Stephen Curry has averaged around 24-25 points per game over his career. | Seth Curry, while a capable scorer, plays more of a supporting role and has averaged around 12-13 points per game. |
Three-Point Shooting | Renowned for his three-point shooting, Stephen Curry has consistently averaged over 40% from beyond the arc and holds numerous records for three-pointers made in a season. | Like his brother, Seth Curry is known for his three-point shooting and has averaged over 40% from beyond the arc, though with fewer attempts compared to Stephen. |
Assists per Game (APG) | Stephen Curry is also an excellent playmaker and has averaged around 6-7 assists per game, showcasing his ability to create for teammates. | Seth Curry’s playmaking is not as prominent as his brother’s, and he has averaged around 2-3 assists per game. |
Rebounds per Game (RPG) | While not a primary focus of his game, Stephen Curry has averaged around 4-5 rebounds per game. | Seth Curry has averaged approximately 2-3 rebounds per game. |
Steals per Game (SPG) | Stephen Curry has averaged approximately 1.6 steals per game, displaying his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers. | Seth Curry has averaged around 1 steal per game, contributing to his team’s defensive efforts. |
Blocks per Game (BPG) | Blocks are not a significant part of their games. Stephen Curry has averaged approximately 0.2 blocks per game, and Seth Curry has similar block statistics. | |
Field Goal Percentage (FG%) | Stephen Curry has maintained a field goal percentage in the high 40s, a remarkable efficiency for a guard. | Seth Curry’s field goal percentage is generally around the league average, which is typically lower than his brother’s. |
Free Throw Percentage (FT%) | Stephen Curry is an exceptional free throw shooter, often shooting around 90% or higher from the charity stripe. | Seth Curry is also a proficient free throw shooter, but his percentage may be slightly lower than his brother’s. |
FAQS
How does Seth’s playing style differ from Steph’s?
Seth shares three-point shooting skills but lacks Steph’s exceptional dribbling and playmaking abilities.
What distinguishes Seth and Steph Curry’s basketball careers?
Steph has multiple NBA championships and MVP awards, while Seth hasn’t achieved those heights.
Why isn’t Seth Curry as good as Steph Curry in the NBA?
Seth lacks the same level of shooting consistency, playmaking, and overall impact on games that Steph possesses.
Is Steph or Seth Curry Older?
Stephen Curry, often referred to as Steph Curry, is the older of the two Curry brothers.
He was born on March 14, 1988, while his younger brother, Seth Curry, was born on August 23, 1990.
Steph is approximately two years older than Seth.
To Recap
The comparison between Seth Curry and his older brother, Stephen Curry, underscores the unique brilliance of each player.
Stephen Curry’s unmatched three-point shooting, transcendent impact on the game, and record-breaking achievements have solidified his status as one of the NBA’s all-time greats.
While Seth Curry is undoubtedly a skilled and valuable player in his own right, he faces the daunting challenge of living up to his brother’s historic legacy.
The age difference, team contexts, and distinct career paths have naturally led to differences in their individual achievements and perceptions in the basketball world.
Seth’s career continues to evolve, and his contributions are best appreciated within his own right, rather than solely in comparison to his illustrious older sibling.