Steve Kerr proclaims Steph Curry’s on-ball defense is ‘underrated’

Steve Kerr proclaims Steph Curry’s on-ball defense is ‘underrated’ originally appeared on
NBC Sports Bay Area

Steph Curry frequently mesmerizes his opponents with clutch shots in critical moments and follows it up with his distinctive “night night” celebration.

However, his defensive prowess also deserves recognition.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr commended Curry’s defense following Golden State’s 120-109 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Monday at Little Caesars Arena.

“I liked our defense down the stretch. We got a bunch of stops,” Kerr said after the game. “We couldn’t get a rebound. But Steph’s on-ball defense was fantastic. I think he’s so underrated on that end. Everybody tries to go at him for good reason to try to tire him out.”

With about five-and-a-half minutes to play, Pistons guard Cade Cunningham drove to the basket and made a layup to cut the Warriors’ lead to two at 103-101. But Curry and Golden State locked in defensively and outscored Detroit 17-8 the rest of the way to claim the team’s fifth road win.

“Steph is a really good defender,” Kerr said. “His on-ball defense down the stretch was one of the keys [in the win].”

Curry was also a standout offensively, scoring 34 points on 12-of-26 shooting with four assists and two rebounds. He made history by becoming the first NBA player to sink at least four 3-pointers in eight consecutive games to start the season.

Curry and the Warriors continue their extended road trip by visiting the defending-champion Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on Wednesday. Curry won’t face Nuggets star Jamal Murray defensively as Denver coach Michael Malone announced he will miss extended time due to a right hamstring strain.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast