Sport

Warriors 2022: Champions Once More.

The Golden State Warriors, after 3 seasons varying from disappointing to dismal, returned to the top of the basketball world, led by the clutch heroics of Steph Curry. In the words of head coach Steve Kerr: “Without him, none of this happens,” Kerr said. “And that’s not taking anything away from Joe and Peter’s ownership, because they’re amazing owners. They’ve built an incredible organization. Bob Myers, hell of a GM. Our players. We’ve had so many great players. But Steph is ultimately why this run has happened. Much like Timmy [Duncan] in San Antonio. I’m happy for everybody, but I’m thrilled for Steph. To me, this is his crowning achievement in what’s already been an incredible career.”

Curry.

The inimitable magic of Steph Curry, which for him is a mere bagatelle. Curry is without a doubt one of the greatest long range shooters ever, possesses magical ball handling skills, and is a potent scorer from anywhere on the court. The 2 time league MVP holds a number of NBA records, including highest free throw percentage for a career, most points in an overtime period, most 3 point shots made in a season…the list goes on. The 6’3″ guard has revolutionized the way the game is played, and is a joy to watch.

Messi.

“Impossible” Goals.
Solo goals.

The magisterial wonder of Lionel Messi. The Magician, the Atomic Flea. The Electric Water-bug. The Wizard Sorcerer. His exploits on the pitch are legend. Per Wikipedia: “Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Messi has won a record seven Ballon d’Or awards, a record six European Golden Shoes, and in 2020 was named to the Ballon d’Or Dream Team. Until leaving the club in 2021, he had spent his entire professional career with Barcelona, where he won a club-record 35 trophies, including 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey titles and four UEFA Champions Leagues. A prolific goalscorer and creative playmaker, Messi holds the records for most goals in La Liga (474), most goals in a La Liga and European league season (50), most hat-tricks in La Liga (36) and the UEFA Champions League (8), and most assists in La Liga (192), a La Liga season (21) and the Copa AmΓ©rica (17).”

A conjurer of goals, Messi is gifted with vision and creativity that are poetic, prescient, and mind-boggling. His exquisite maneuverability and elusiveness leave defenders strewn in his wake. And, as of December 18, 2022, he now has led Argentina to the highest possible international levels: championships in the Copa AmΓ©rica {2021} and, at last, to the pinnacle, the World Cup {2022}, winning an unprecedented 2nd Golden Ball in the process.