Stephen Curry and LeBron James are two legendary players who have graced the sport over the last decade. They have given their fans countless memories over the years in the NBA for their respective sides. Their rivalry in the 2010s was must-see TV. Notably, former NBA veteran Jalen Rose shared an insight regarding who is more influential among the two stars.

Many rank LeBron James as a top 3 of all time. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry might make the top 10 list. However, Jalen Rose just did the unthinkable in terms of influence. He chose the Golden State Warriors guard over the Los Angeles Lakers star. The former ESPN host claimed on a recent podcast that Curry is the ‘leader of the new school.’

When you see LeBron James, you cannot ignore the fact that he's a physical specimen. But when you see Steph Curry? you're like 'him?'...that influence plus his game and championship pedigree. Steph Curry is not a point guard or shooting guard, I've called him a Vanguard for years. The leader of the new school.

Jalen Rose said on the JalenTV

Rose’s statements regarding Curry do have a point. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Curry outperformed everyone on the roster in the Semi-finals and the Finals. His threatening influence on the court helped Team USA prevail over Serbia and the French national team.

Curry shot 65.4% (17-26 3FG) in the last two games and concluded the event with a 47.8% (32-26) 3-point shooting percentage. James also played well and won the tournament MVP. Nevertheless, it was Stephen Curry who rose to the occasion when it was needed the most.

The GOAT conversations and influential player conversations will separate candidates. More fans like the three-pointers due to the impact Curry had over the years. His status as the best shooter in the league certainly changed the way teams play the game. As such, Curry has had more influence over ‘King James.’

Jalen Rose ranks ‘best shooters’ in history with Stephen Curry making the cut

Jalen Rose played for many teams in the NBA that reached the playoff stages. Similarly, he played with many NBA legends alongside and against them during his career. During his time with the Indiana Pacers, he played alongside a three-point record holder Reggie Miller.

Speaking from experience, Rose discussed how he would rank the greatest shooters in NBA history. He also shed light on what distinguishes particular players, like Stephen Curry, Larry Bird, and Reggie Miller, in an old interview with GQ.

Well, here's the deal. Let me squash a couple of things. The greatest set shooter ever? Larry Joe Bird, period. The best coming off-screen? Reginald Miller. And the best off the dribble? Steph Curry. There is no gray for me.

Jalen Rose via GQ Sports

Curry was still developing into one of the best shooters at the time. Klay Thompson had yet to demonstrate that he was a reliable three-point shooter. Rose, however, was adamant in his beliefs, so Curry would now undoubtedly top his list of priorities if someone asked him the same question at this juncture.