Yaxel Lendeborg said he used to hate Stephen Curry because he is a fan of Kyrie Irving [1].
The admission comes as Lendeborg joins the Golden State Warriors after being selected No. 11 overall in the draft [2]. His comments highlight the personal dynamics and player rivalries that new recruits bring into a locker room, especially when joining a franchise defined by Curry's legacy.
Lendeborg described his admiration for the former Celtics and Mavericks guard as the primary driver for his previous feelings toward the Warriors star. "I'm a big Kyrie guy," Lendeborg said [1]. He further clarified his past perspective by stating, "I used to hate Steph Curry" [1].
While the Warriors have built a dynasty around Curry's long-range shooting and leadership, Lendeborg's preference for Irving's style of play created a mental divide for him as a spectator. The transition from a critic to a teammate marks a significant shift in the young player's professional trajectory.
Lendeborg now enters a system where Curry serves as the centerpiece of the offense. The No. 11 pick [2] will have to integrate his game into a team culture that has spent years elevating Curry to the status of one of the greatest players in NBA history.
This candid reflection on his preferences suggests a level of honesty regarding his athletic inspirations. By identifying as a "Kyrie guy" [1], Lendeborg acknowledges a preference for the specific skill set, and flair associated with Irving—a contrast to the structured efficiency often associated with the Warriors' offensive sets.
“"I'm a big Kyrie guy."”
Lendeborg's comments reflect the common experience of young athletes who idolize specific players, often creating perceived rivalries between stars. His transition from a Kyrie Irving devotee to a teammate of Stephen Curry represents the shift from fan-based loyalty to professional integration within the NBA's competitive environment.
