Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ sharpshooting superstar, is no stranger to defying expectations. At 36 years old during the 2024-25 NBA season, Curry delivered a jaw-dropping performance, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.1 steals across 70 regular-season games. Leading the Warriors to a 48-34 record and the seventh seed in the Western Conference, he earned All-Star honors and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. While many anticipated a decline due to his age, Curry proved he’s still a force to be reckoned with—and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
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As the 2025-26 season looms, Curry has once again stolen the spotlight, this time for a transformation that’s left fans and analysts buzzing. In mid-September, a viral image of the 11-time All-Star looking absolutely ripped while hoisting barbell plates during a workout set the basketball world on fire. Social media erupted with excitement over Curry’s chiseled physique, with fans proclaiming he’s in the best shape of his career.
“He looks like he is in the best shape of his life,” one fan gushed. Another chimed in, “Steph Curry is entering his 17th NBA season looking absolutely shredded.” Supporters couldn’t contain their enthusiasm, with comments like, “Steph’s dedication is unmatched. Can’t wait for the season!” and “That’s what hard work looks like!” flooding platforms like X.
So, what’s the secret behind Curry’s head-turning physique? His personal trainer, Brandon Payne, recently sat down with Mark Medina of RG.com to reveal the meticulous process that has the Warriors star looking stronger than ever. Payne, who works closely with Golden State’s Director of Performance, Carl Bergstrom, emphasized that Curry’s transformation is no accident—it’s the result of a carefully crafted plan executed with unrelenting discipline.
“Carl and I work very closely together to make sure the load is being placed on his body appropriately from both a strength and conditioning standpoint as well as a skills standpoint,” Payne explained. “We’re placing the proper emphasis on where it needs to be. I would argue that our process and level of organization is as high as there is out there. There aren’t any accidents. Everything is done for purpose. He executes it with purpose. He executes it with a lot of discipline.”
Payne didn’t shy away from confirming the hype surrounding Curry’s new look, stating, “He’s certainly a lot stronger.” This boost in physicality could be a game-changer as Curry prepares for his age-37/38 season, a point in their careers when many NBA stars begin to fade. Yet, with Curry, the opposite seems true—his commitment to evolving his game and body has kept him at the pinnacle of the sport.
As the Warriors gear up for another championship run, all eyes will be on Curry to see how his enhanced physique translates on the court. The team’s success in the 2025-26 season, which tips off on October 21 with a marquee matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena, will hinge on Curry’s ability to maintain his elite performance. The preseason, starting in early October, will offer the first glimpse of how his newfound strength impacts his game.
Unlike many of his peers who have shown signs of decline at this stage, Curry continues to rewrite the script. His work ethic, combined with a training regimen that’s clearly paying dividends, has fans and analysts alike buzzing with anticipation. Will this be the season Curry leads the Warriors back to the NBA’s summit? If his chiseled new look and relentless drive are any indication, the basketball world is in for another masterclass from Chef Curry.