Against the Rockets, Stephen Curry and Seth made history by playing together for the first time in their careers. It was an emotional moment, and the elder Curry even called themselves “Rehab brothers” as long-term injuries put a question mark over their participation. But their second game together could very well have been the last.
The Golden State Warriors announcers, along with fans and teammates, were left outraged as the Sacramento Kings resorted to a controversial tactic to stop the Curry brothers from dominating the game. In the midst of a close game, the Kings began intentionally fouling Stephen and Seth Curry, a move commonly known as “hacking,” in an attempt to disrupt their rhythm and force them to miss free throws.
The Warriors announcers were quick to call out the Kings for their unsportsmanlike behavior, with one announcer stating, “This is a disgrace to the game of basketball. It’s not even a basketball play, it’s just a tactic to slow down the Curry brothers.” Another announcer chimed in, “This is not how the game should be played. It’s a shame that the Kings have resorted to such tactics.”
The frustration was evident on the faces of the Curry brothers as they were repeatedly fouled and sent to the free throw line. But what was more disappointing was the lack of action from the referees. Despite the Warriors’ protests and calls for a technical foul, the referees allowed the Kings to continue their hacking strategy.
The Warriors’ teammate, Draymond Green, also expressed his disappointment in the Kings’ tactics, stating, “It’s not basketball. It’s not what the game is about. We should be playing basketball, not trying to intentionally foul players to win a game.”
It’s not the first time the Curry brothers have been targeted in such a manner. In fact, it has become a common tactic used by opposing teams to try and stop the dynamic duo. But what makes this instance even more frustrating is the fact that it came just a day after the Curry brothers made history by playing together for the first time.
After months of rehabilitation and hard work, both Stephen and Seth were finally healthy and able to take the court together. It was a moment that fans and the Warriors organization had been eagerly waiting for. And to see their second game together being overshadowed by such unsportsmanlike behavior was disheartening.
But amidst all the frustration and disappointment, there was also a sense of pride and admiration for the Curry brothers. Despite being targeted and fouled repeatedly, they remained composed and focused on the game. They didn’t let the Kings’ tactics affect their performance and instead used it as motivation to play even harder.
In the end, the Warriors managed to come out on top with a close 117-116 victory over the Kings. And while the win was important for the team’s playoff hopes, it was also a statement from the Curry brothers that they cannot be stopped, no matter what tactics are used against them.
It’s time for the NBA to take action against such tactics and protect the integrity of the game. Hacking not only disrupts the flow of the game but also puts players at risk of injury. It’s a cheap and cowardly move that has no place in basketball.
As for the Curry brothers, their bond has only grown stronger through their shared experience of injuries and rehabilitation. They have proven that they are not just talented basketball players, but also resilient and determined individuals who will not be brought down by any challenges thrown their way.
In the end, the Warriors announcers summed it up perfectly, “The Curry brothers are not just rehab brothers, they are brothers in arms, and they will continue to make history together.” Let’s hope we get to see many more moments of the Curry brothers playing together on the court and making history in the NBA.
