Why D’Angelo Russell Says Steph Curry Is the NBA’s Most Resp

In a league packed with highlight-makers and stat-stuffers, few names command universal respect like Stephen Curry. He’s the kind of player who transcends fanbases beloved by kids launching threes in the driveway, envied by defenders across the NBA, and now, crowned as D’Angelo Russell’s favorite player, for reasons that go far beyond his logo-range shooting.

On a recent episode of his podcast, Russell offered high praise for the four-time NBA champion, pulling back the curtain on what truly makes Steph Curry special. According to Russell, it’s not just the flash or the finesse it’s the mental discipline and humility with which Curry approaches the game.

“Steph plays the game with this, ‘I don’t need the refs’ mentality,” Russell said. “When you look around the league, who’s doing that? That’s why he gets so much credit. That’s why he’s my favorite player. That’s why I respect him so much.”

And coming from DLo — a former All-Star who’s played alongside LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Karl-Anthony Towns — those words carry real weight.

More Than a Shooter: The Intangible Greatness of Steph Curry

To casual fans, Steph Curry is the guy who shoots from the logo. But to his peers, he’s something much deeper. While his three-point shooting may have revolutionized the modern NBA, it’s his self-discipline, toughness, and leadership that elevate him to another level.

Russell highlighted the way Curry refuses to lean on referees to get buckets a rare trait in today’s game. Unlike some stars who build their scoring around drawing fouls, Steph gets his the hard way, navigating traps, double-teams, and physical defenders who are instructed to bump, grab, and foul him relentlessly.

“Every team has a game plan centered around stopping him,” Russell explained. “And yet he still gets his, without the theatrics, without begging for calls.”

It’s a subtle form of toughness — one that doesn’t always make highlight reels, but leaves a lasting impression on those who understand the grind of professional basketball.

Respect from a Short-Term Teammate

Russell’s own time with the Golden State Warriors was short-lived a half-season stint during the injury-riddled 2019-2020 campaign. Yet even that brief window gave him insight into Curry’s mindset and work ethic. While the two guards didn’t get to make a deep playoff run together, the impression Curry left on Russell was permanent.

It’s not hard to see why. Curry, for all his fame and accolades, plays the game with a rare purity. He moves constantly off the ball, works tirelessly to create space, and rarely takes plays off. And all of it from his flamboyant passing to his crafty finishes at the rim happens with a humility that defies his superstardom.

The Refs, the Roughing, and the Reality

If there’s one criticism that has followed Curry over the years, it’s the notion that he’s treated unfairly by referees. Warriors fans have long felt that Steph doesn’t get the superstar whistle that many of his peers enjoy. Whether it’s getting bumped on drives, bodied off screens, or hacked on threes, Curry often plays through contact without complaint.

This was especially clear in this year’s playoffs, when Houston’s Dillon Brooks never one to shy away from controversy was accused of intentionally targeting Curry’s injured thumb. Through it all, Curry stayed composed, choosing to compete rather than complain.

And that’s what makes D’Angelo Russell’s comments so powerful. They reflect a deeper truth: that in an era of flopping and foul-baiting, Steph’s refusal to manipulate the system is a badge of honor.

The Draymond Effect: A Tale of Two Teammates

Of course, where Steph is calm and collected, Draymond Green is his emotional counterbalance — a vocal, fiery enforcer who’s never afraid to speak his mind to referees, opponents, or even teammates.

In many ways, Draymond and Steph represent the perfect yin and yang. If the NBA were pro wrestling, Steph would be the charismatic babyface — beloved, clean-cut, and universally cheered. Draymond, meanwhile, would be the heel — aggressive, polarizing, and always pushing boundaries.

Together, they’ve helped define the Warriors’ dynasty. Draymond handles the controversy; Steph handles the chaos.

Steph’s Mental Edge Is What Truly Sets Him Apart

Russell’s praise cuts to the heart of what makes Stephen Curry not just great, but timeless. Beyond the stats, the rings, and the records, it’s his approach to the game that leaves the deepest impact.

He doesn’t pout when he’s not getting calls. He doesn’t rely on manipulation. He simply plays — with joy, confidence, and a mental edge that few can match.

In a league full of stars, Steph’s humility and resilience set him apart.

Why He’s Everyone’s Favorite

Stephen Curry isn’t just your favorite player he’s your favorite player’s favorite player. He’s a role model on the court, a leader in the locker room, and, as D’Angelo Russell reminded us, a symbol of what it looks like to win with integrity.

In the end, that may be his greatest legacy.

Because while highlight reels fade and records get broken, respect lasts forever and Steph Curry has earned every ounce of it.

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