Many of the world’s greatest athletes have iconic nicknames, be it “The Black Mamba” for Kobe Bryant, “The Greatest” for Muhammad Ali or “The Sultan of Swat” for Babe Ruth.
Thanks to the famous artist Drake, Stephen Curry’s nickname is one of the most memorable in modern history.
The Canadian rapper debuted the moniker in July 2013 on his song “0 to 100/The Catch Up,” years before Curry became the superstar the world knows him to be. Drake was ahead of his time, releasing his song after Curry’s 2012-13 season, in which he finished 11th in MVP voting but did not earn an All-Star appearance. Golden State lost to the Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals that season.
The nickname has stuck around for over a decade and doesn’t seem to lose any traction with fans. Here’s a breakdown of the nickname, including the Drake lyrics that started it all.
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Stephen Curry’s nickname “Chef Curry” explained
Curry is often referred to as “Chef Curry,” which is a reference to Drake’s song “0 to 100/The Catch Up.” The song was released in July 2013, a year before Curry made his first All-Star appearance.
“Chef Curry” is a play on words on Curry’s ability to cook his opponents on the court. When a player cooks or boils, it means he plays well. It also flows well, which is important for any nickname.
@uninterruptedcanada Did you know that Drake came up with Steph’s nickname “Chef” Curry? 👀 (via @WIRED.COM ♬ Original sound – UNINTERRUPTED Canada 🇨🇦
Here are the lyrics of “0 to 100/The Catch Up,” which include Curry’s famous nickname:
I was Steph Curry with the shot. I cooked with the sauce, Chef Curry with the pot, boy
Drake has mentioned Curry numerous times throughout his career, with the line “Chef Curry” being the most notable. The two are friends and even exchanged some friendly trash talk during the 2019 NBA Finals.
MORE: Why Stephen Curry’s Olympic debut didn’t happen until 2024
Songs and lyrics by Drake and Stephen Curry
“Summer Sixteen”
In his song “Summer Sixteen,” released in February 2016, Drake claimed that he invited the Warriors to his house to practice.
“Golden State running workout at my house.”
There is some truth to that, even though not the entire Warriors team practiced at Drake’s house. Curry and his brother-in-law played 1-on-1 at Drake’s house, which was the inspiration for that saying.
‘Still here’
Drake referenced Curry again in 2016 when the point guard was unanimously voted MVP. “Still Here” landed on Drake’s May 2016 album “Views.”
“I have to talk to God even when he’s not around me. Given what I have, it’s hard to believe he doesn’t hear me. If I can get 30 on my jersey, I’m gifted.”
Instead of mentioning the superstar’s name, Drake used Curry’s jersey number in the lyrics. Curry wore number 30 throughout his college and NBA career.
