Stephen Curry, widely considered the best basketball player in the world currently in action, has spoken of his desire to make his Olympic Games debut at Rio 2016. The 27-year-old guard, who was voted the NBA’s most valuable player last season, has won two world titles (2010 and 2014) with the USA but was not selected for the team that won gold at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

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Curry, who broke his own NBA record with 286 three-pointers last season, has been in majestic form again this term, helping defending champions the Golden State Warriors make an NBA record-breaking start with 16 straight wins. He is the league’s leading scorer, with an average of 32.1 points per game.

‘I’m a big fan of Messi, because you never know what he’s going to do’

Stephen Curry

Speaking to journalists on an international conference call on Wednesday (25 November), Curry was asked about the prospect of playing at Rio 2016. “I’m definitely excited to be part of the Olympic team. To have that experience in Rio for the Olympics will be a dream come true. With the culture down there, the sights, and just the whole Olympic experience, it should be a once-in-a-lifetime memory.”

Curry said he had “a great time” in Brazil during a week’s holiday with his family when he was 18. “To go back and represent my country, play with all the other great NBA talent that’s going to make up the Team USA roster, it’s going to be a lot of fun,” he said. “And it’ll be here before you know it. That’s the cool part.”

Curry calculated that, if the Warriors successfully defend their title this season, he would have three weeks “to refresh and get ready for Rio”.

Curry shoots against Slovenia in the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals (Photo: David Ramos/Getty Images)

Curry was also asked about similarities between himself and Argentinian football superstar Lionel Messi. “We both have a creative style, where it’s just about a feel when you’re out on the pitch or court,” said Curry.

“I try to do the fancy things out there by going with both hands, making crossover moves and having a certain creativity and flair to my game. That’s definitely the style that Messi has when he’s out there. I love watching him play. When he’s on TV, everyone is glued in, because as soon as he gets a touch on the ball, something special could happen. You’ve got to appreciate that kind of talent.”

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