Golden State Warriors icon Stephen Curry is frequently mentioned in the NBA's GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debates. While fans regularly place legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant at the top, some argue Curry's transformative impact on basketball deserves just as much recognition.
Now, former NBA player turned ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has weighed in on what it will take for Curry to truly enter that elite conversation — and it comes down to two major milestones.
What Steph Curry Needs to Join the GOAT Club
Speaking on ESPN’s Get Up on May 5, Kendrick Perkins explained that Curry is within striking distance of GOAT status, but emphasized that one more title and a specific individual honor are needed to solidify his place.
“Steph Curry is one championship away and one Finals MVP away from entering the GOAT conversation,” Perkins declared.
“Real talk. He's one championship and one Finals MVP away from entering the GOAT conversation. And I would dare somebody to try to argue or make me seem like I'm saying something ridiculous."
Curry’s Historic Resume Still Missing One Piece
At age 37, Curry already has four NBA championships under his belt — winning titles in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022 with the Golden State Warriors. As the Warriors prepare for a Western Conference semi-final clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves on May 7, a fifth ring could be within reach.
However, Curry has only one Finals MVP to his name, which he won in 2022. In contrast, Michael Jordan won six Finals MVPs to go along with his six titles, while LeBron James has four Finals MVPs tied to each of his championship wins.
Perkins Praises Curry’s Impact and Evolution
Perkins didn’t just focus on accolades. He also highlighted how Curry has redefined the game — particularly for undersized guards.
"What he has done for the game, he has changed the game forever, forever," Perkins said.
"He's given life to all the guys that are under 6'3", right? Not just because of his shooting ability, but because of what he brings to the table night in and night out on a day-to-day basis as a true professional."
Perkins further praised Curry's improvement on defense, especially during the 2022 Finals against the Boston Celtics.
“They were trying to pick on him. And I thought that's when he levelled up and took it to the next level defensively,” he added.
Curry on His Place in GOAT History
While the debates rage on, Curry himself has offered a humble and thoughtful take on the GOAT discourse. Speaking on Today with Willie Geist in 2023, he explained that greatness can't be measured by a single standard.
"I ascribe to the mindset that there are multiple GOATs," Curry said.
"And I hate that, it's not a cop-out answer, but it's so hard to compare eras. And getting into that conversation of 'oh if you put Michael in this era or if you put LeBron in that era,' it's kind of unfair. It's a great barbershop debate, and it's something that'll never stop until the end of time."
As Curry gears up for yet another playoff run, his performance this postseason could determine whether he finally enters that exclusive GOAT tier alongside the game's most iconic legends.