Stephen Curry Confirms His Ideal Warriors Scenario Before Retirement

Stephen Curry is already in the twilight years of his career. Heading into the 2026-27 season, he is set to participate in year 18 at 38 years old. He is also currently the longest-tenured active NBA player on the Golden State Warriors roster. Having that in mind, many fans are worried that he might be retiring soon.

In a recent interview with SiriusXM NBA Radio, Curry shared why he's still playing at this stage in his career. Steph expressed his desire to still win another title before he decides to hang up his laces.

"That is why I'm playing. Especially to (win an NBA championship) in the same place that I've been doing it for the last 17 years, I feel like that's the ultimate challenge," Curry said. "Of course, I want to win. You're hoping that you can be in the mix... If we have one more run at it, that would be ideal. That’s what we’re all fully committed to."

All summer long, Curry had Warriors fans worried because of his contract situation. He was supposedly going to start the 2026-27 season with an expiring contract. But then, in late September, Steph agreed to a two-year deal worth $116 million. This means that we can expect to see him play in the 2027-28 season.

As for the 2028-29 season, it's a player option for Steph. This means he could go one of three ways. Either he opts into his player option, tests our free agency in 2028, or retires from the NBA after 19 seasons.

Stephen Curry Still Looking Good Before the 2026-27 Season Commences

Stephen Curry is already 38 and entering his 18th NBA season. That makes Curry one of the oldest guys in the league, behind the likes of LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Given his age, many are worried about how Steph will perform in his 18th year.

Looking at his performance last season, Steph still put up efficient numbers across the board. He averaged 26.6 points, 4.7 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. However, he was limited to 43 games due to patellofemoral pain syndrome, otherwise known as runner's knee.

While his injury wasn't anything too serious, the concern mainly stems from the slow recovery Steph had before coming back in April. With that in mind, many are worried that another injury in the 2026-27 season could lead to another lengthy absence on the hardwood.

Nevertheless, Steph looked healthy in the 2026 NBA Preseason. Curry has participated in four of the Warriors' five preseason games. Steph averaged 11.3 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.0 rebounds in roughly 15.8 minutes per game. Not too bad given his playing time.

His most notable game was when the Warriors took on the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 7. In only 14 minutes of play, Steph put up 16 points, five assists, and two rebounds. This game shows that he's still a threat on the hardwood and can turn things up when needed.

With all that in mind, for as long as Curry remains healthy, Golden State fans shouldn't worry too much about him playing in his twilight years. The Warriors still have one more preseason game to go, this time against the Portland Trail Blazers.

It's more than likely that head coach Steve Kerr will sit out his key players in preparation for their season opener against the Lakers on Oct. 21.