For more than a decade, the Golden State Warriors have been a nightmare assignment for every opponent. Their dynasty began in 2015 when Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson ignited a new era with their outside shooting, and Kevin Durant’s arrival only deepened the dominance with two more championships in 2017 and 2018. By the time Golden State captured its fourth title in eight years in 2022, the blueprint of modern basketball had been permanently altered.
Even outside the NBA, Curry’s impact stretches far and wide. His brilliance was once again on display at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where the United States claimed gold over France. It was there that Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, a three-time All-Star and cornerstone of the French national team, found himself reflecting on what it means to compete against Curry.
Gobert Speaks on Curry’s Brilliance
On an episode of “The Old Man and the Three,” Gobert revealed just how difficult it is to deal with Curry’s presence.
“I wasn’t on the floor at that time,” Gobert admitted. “I wish I would have been out there, but the competitor in you gets frustrated. At the same time, when you witness greatness like that, you can only be grateful. You tip your hat because you know you’re seeing one of the greatest players to ever do it.”
Gobert described that sense of helplessness when Curry seizes control of a game. “You don’t want to turn into a fan, but it’s one of those moments where you recognize history unfolding. It wasn’t just one shot that cost us the game. We lost it earlier, but when Steph is rolling, you feel it. You know it.”
Respect for a Generational Talent
It was not the first time Gobert expressed admiration for Curry. Following Golden State’s fourth championship run, he told TMZ Sports that Curry belonged in “rarefied air” and was “at the top of the list for sure.” He even credited the Warriors star with changing the game itself, a sentiment echoed by many across the basketball world.
Still, admiration doesn’t erase the competitive sting. While Gobert and the Timberwolves knocked out Golden State in the 2025 Western Conference Semifinals, his overall record against the Warriors reflects the uphill battle.
In 39 career games facing Golden State, Gobert has averaged 12.4 points and 12.6 rebounds while shooting 63.6 percent from the field. Despite his strong production, his teams hold a losing record of 15-24 in those contests.
Looking Ahead
Curry may not cross paths with Gobert again in Olympic play, but the NBA schedule ensures that their rivalry continues. As long as Curry is still on the floor, defenses everywhere will keep feeling the same frustration Gobert described: the impossible task of trying to contain a player who reshaped the sport.
