Stephen Curry vs. LeBron James: A historic NBA rivalry

Wilt had Russell. Magic had Bird. Now, LeBron has Curry.

It’s a modern-day rivalry reminiscent of the game’s all-time best. And we get to watch it play out one more time, Sunday in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Winner take all.

It doesn’t really get any better than this in a team sport that has always ridden its outsize personalities. From Bill Russell’s Celtics to Magic Johnson’s Lakers and through to Michael Jordan’s Bulls.

Now we have Stephen Curry’s Warriors versus LeBron James’ Cavs. A marquee matchup that should be relished.

The NBA’s greatest teams all had Hall of Famers at the helm, unmistakable and usually identifiable by a single name. And the truly great ones had a primary rival against whom they could measure themselves. Johnson would not have risen to those heights without Larry Bird, and the reverse holds true. Bill Russell put team first to defeat the supremely gifted Chamberlain back in the day.

LeBron James and Stephen Curry are still writing their histories, a rivalry that began in last year’s Finals when Curry dethroned King James atop the basketball world. LeBron did not forget, nor has he forgiven. He has played these Finals with purpose and conviction, a man with something to prove.

The James-Curry matchup is unique, in that they play such different styles. Curry represents the future of basketball, rhythm and flow and dead-eye shooting. James is a relic of the past, relying on brute strength and soaring athleticism to dominate.

Each has his own way, and there’s clearly mutual respect. But that relationship has been singed in the crucible of The Finals.

Before these Finals even began, James questioned whether Curry was truly the league’s MVP. It looks as though James has taken particular relish in physically dominating his much-smaller rival, knocking Curry around, blocking his shots and jawing at him on several occasions.

For the most part, Curry has had to take it, still hobbled by injuries suffered earlier in these playoffs. But the shooting star who has won the past two league MVP awards — this year’s unanimously — re-emerged in Games 5 and 6.

Curry scored 30 points in 35 minutes Thursday night, while James poured in 41 for the second straight game. With the series tied 3-3, we’re finally getting the best from the best.

“He’s playing great,” said Curry, when asked about James’ offensive explosions in Games 5 and 6. “He’s doing things that are game-changing and helping his team win. He’s been more aggressive, I think, shooting the ball. We’ve had some breakdowns, but he’s played well. There’s no two ways about it.

“So, tip your hat to him and come out Sunday with aggression. …”

Generally speaking, James has returned the compliments, saying all the right things about Curry.

“I don’t really get involved in that,” said James, when asked about his competition with Curry. “I try to be the best player I can be for this team every night. ...

“But at the end of the day, my whole mind-set is how I can put myself in position to help these guys be successful and I could be successful, as well. I don’t really get caught up in what everybody else talks about. I think you should know me by now. I see what you’re trying to do, though.”

Yes, we know you by now, LeBron. You’re one of the all-time greats at the age of 32, trying to cement your legacy. And a little dude about half your size stands in the way. After defensive responses like the quote above, one gets the sense that James still can’t believe this baby-faced kid came into his castle and stole his crown, his title, his supremacy. Curry looks like he’s 14.

But we’ve all learned that looks can be deceiving. Behind the youthful facade lies a fierce competitor of the top order who has proved, once again, that he’s as tough as they come.

The charge he took against the 6-foot-8, 250-pound James in the first half of Game 6 was an act of pure heroism, akin to standing in front of an on-coming freight train.

It was fitting that the game’s pivotal moment also involved the two future Hall of Famers. With 4:22 to play, Curry used his quickness and stealth to strip James of the ball, only to hear the referee’s whistle for the sixth time that night.

Curry erupted in anger and disbelief, earning an additional technical and ejection, while James stayed on the court and finished off the Warriors.

It was a classic NBA moment, for which these Finals will be remembered forever. The two best players in the world, locked in a struggle for the game’s biggest prize.

Expect more of the same on Sunday.