Is the NBA more popular on a global scale than it is on a hyper-local scale? LeBron James and Steph Curry have been superstar legends of the game for over 20 years now, yet they still have the top two selling jerseys in the game.

Collectively, James and Curry are 75 years-old. They have eight championship rings between them, and 36 NBA seasons. Presently, there are all-world mega-stars in the game such as Victor Wembanyama and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Still, this begs the question: in your local cities and markets are mainstays like James and Curry more of a draw than your team’s stars? The  NFL has certainly taught us a few cultural lessons here. A young fan often cheers for players like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Lamar Jackson more than the team they call their favorite. In other words, young fans seem to favor players as opposed to teams.

Here’s How LeBron James and Stephen Curry Are Still Flying High

Four or five times a week, my youngest son and I play a one-on-one basketball. It’s a fun bonding experience where we lower the hoop, and we shoot around. Our driveway stage names here are Parker James vs. Jeff Curry.

It’s important to note that I live in the Celtics’ market. Boston has been dominant all year and is expected to be a serious contender for the title. However, I am a big New York Knicks fan, as is my son. The Knicks too, have had one of their more exciting teams in a long time. Sure, it’s a play on our names, but my little man and I still opt to be James and Curry in our basketball games.

Jersey sales and pickup-game characters are one thing, but it is fair to say there is some additional substance behind these two players continuing to have a major impact. Of course, they are globally recognized and have been the face of major brands. James with Nike and Curry with Under Armour.

There’s also what they have done for the game and in the game. James may not be the all-time GOAT just yet, but he has arguably had one of the greatest NBA careers of all-time considering how long he is playing. For context, Bill Russell played 13 seasons, and Michael Jordan played 15 seasons. James is in his 21st.

Steph Curry completely changed the game in his flawless execution of the three-point shot.  Young players often prefer sinking a distance three over slamming a powerful dunk. In addition, Curry has often been mentioned when we discuss how incredible it is to watch the women’s game and Caitlin Clark swishing logo three-pointers. Curry popularized the three unlike any other player in recent history.

Curry and the Warriors are currently out of the playoffs. James and the Lakers have a tall task ahead of them going up against the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Likely, neither player will raise a banner this year. Yet, even in the offseason fans all over the world will buy their jerseys and choose to mimic them in their local pickup games.

I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. It’s great to have these players accomplish greatness and still cheer for the stars in your city. Both can progress the game.