Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 1 - Steph Curry Deserves Respect
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the focus centers on Stephen "Steph" Curry, highlighting his exceptional performance, enduring legacy, and the pervasive lack of respect he receives compared to his contemporaries. The discussion delves into Curry's statistics, his impact on the game, and endorsements from notable figures like Shaquille O'Neal (Shaq), advocating for Curry's recognition as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Steph Curry's Exceptional Performance

The conversation kicks off with co-host J Mac reflecting on Steph Curry's recent performances:

J Mac [25:30]: "You've been poo pooing Steph Curry forever. I've been hearing this forever. The disrespect."

Despite criticisms, Curry's statistics speak volumes about his prowess:

J Mac [12:45]: "That Steph Curry dude has 32 assists in the last three games. 12 and one at the Garden. They finally got him a legitimate star."

Curry’s ability to perform under pressure is emphasized, showcasing his clutch performances and consistent excellence:

J Mac [15:10]: "He's strangely nuanced that he's flashy, yet nuanced and can be, like, almost on the edge of out of control, but always dependable in the clutch."

Comparisons with Other Players

The hosts draw comparisons between Curry and other NBA stars, highlighting his unique position in the league:

J Mac [18:22]: "In today's basketball world, he's the point guard starting in the best starting five of all time. There's only one argument. It's Magic. It's Magic or Curry."

Discussions about contemporaries like James Harden, John Wall, and Derrick Rose serve to underline Curry’s superior and more consistent impact on the game:

J Mac [20:05]: "James Harden was in the same draft as Steph Curry. How relevant is James Harden today? John Wall, the Bullet. He was the first draft after Steph Curry. He's out of the league."

Shaquille O'Neal's Endorsement

A pivotal moment in the episode features Shaq advocating for Curry’s place in the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) conversation:

Shaq [45:50]: "I demand you fans to start putting Steph Curry in that greatest of all time conversation. I played against Mike, played with Kobe, played against him, with LeBron. They're all great, but you go, at some point, we're going to have to put Steph Curry in that category."

Shaq emphasizes Curry's unselfishness and his ability to elevate team performance:

Shaq [46:30]: "Even when Curry has the ball and is the centerpiece, he's remarkably unselfish. He's all about the team, which is rare."

Curry's Legacy and Impact

The discussion moves to Curry’s broader impact on the game and his legacy:

Colin Cowherd [30:15]: "Curry is a culture builder. Y'all love James Harden. For years, all I heard about is James Harden. Curry changes the game every night."

Curry’s influence extends beyond his statistics, affecting team dynamics and the NBA's strategic approaches:

Colin Cowherd [32:40]: "He is a culture builder. You have to give him credit for changing the way the game is played with his shooting and playmaking."

Addressing the Disrespect

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to addressing the lack of respect Curry receives, despite his undeniable talent and contributions:

J Mac [35:00]: "It's been disrespect from draft night on. It's incredible, the disrespect."

The hosts argue that Curry’s consistent performance and leadership merit greater recognition and respect within the basketball community:

J Mac [37:25]: "He had to be a Finals MVP to justify he's in all-time great stuff. All-time great stuff. I mean, there's an argument, and I don't think it's wrong."

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

In wrapping up the discussion, the hosts reiterate the importance of acknowledging Curry’s achievements and advocating for his rightful place among the NBA’s elite:

J Mac [50:10]: "I'm glad Shaq said it because I just think he's been so disrespected. Had to beat Jason Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the finale to justify his greatness. I mean, come on now."

Shaq [51:45]: "Let's just have the conversation. I mean, it's unbelievable."

The episode concludes with a powerful call to the listeners to recognize and respect Steph Curry's unparalleled contributions to the game of basketball.

Notable Quotes

• J Mac [25:30]: "You've been poo pooing Steph Curry forever. I've been hearing this forever. The disrespect."
• Shaq [45:50]: "I demand you fans to start putting Steph Curry in that greatest of all time conversation."
• Colin Cowherd [30:15]: "Curry is a culture builder."
• J Mac [37:25]: "He had to be a Finals MVP to justify he's in all-time great stuff."

Conclusion

The Herd with Colin Cowherd’s Hour 1 episode effectively underscores the argument that Steph Curry deserves much more respect within the NBA and the broader sports community. Through detailed analysis, compelling statistics, and endorsements from respected figures like Shaq, the episode makes a robust case for recognizing Curry's significant impact and legendary status in basketball.