In the NBA, numerous players have risen to fame due to their exceptional basketball skills, often accompanied by distinctive nicknames that further endear them to fans.

Iconic figures like Michael Jordan (dubbed “Black Jesus”), Kobe Bryant (“Black Mamba”), Tim Duncan (“The Fundamental”), Nikola Jokic (“Joker”), LeBron James (“King”), and Stephen Curry, the leading star of the Golden State Warriors, have all been bestowed with memorable monikers.

Curry, in particular, is affectionately known as “Chef,” a nickname seemingly unrelated to basketball. The origin of this unique nickname is explored in an article by Sporting News, shedding light on why it became associated with the star player.

Origin and meaning of Stephen Curry’s nickname “Chef”

The nickname “Chef” attributed to Stephen Curry finds its roots in his friendship with the renowned male rapper Drake. Back in 2014, Drake collaborated on a single with Curry’s wife, Ayesha, titled “Chef Curry With The Pot.” The release gained significant popularity and garnered widespread attention. In a memorable video clip, Ayesha and Curry were seen dancing to the song’s music, a moment that quickly went viral and amassed millions of views on YouTube.

As Stephen Curry’s prominence in the NBA continued to soar, the song gained even greater traction, further solidifying the association between the nickname “Chef Curry” and the basketball star. This connection stemmed from the fact that Curry’s shooting technique bore resemblance to a chef skillfully flipping dishes in a pan, which led fans and the media to adopt the nickname “Chef” when referring to him.

Interestingly, the origins of this nickname trace back to a misunderstanding in online circles. Curry himself disclosed during an interview that the term “Chef Curry” in the song was actually meant to refer to his wife, Ayesha Curry, rather than himself. Nonetheless, due to Curry’s widespread popularity and the success of the Golden State Warriors, the nickname continued to be linked to him whenever mentioned.

Beyond the moniker “Chef,” Curry has also been given other nicknames such as the “Baby-Faced Assassin” and, in Korea, he is referred to as “Spicy Flavor Curry.” During a special appearance on an episode of Infinity Challenge, one of Korea’s most beloved TV shows, host Yoo Jae Suk introduced Curry to the Korean nickname coined by fans. The Golden State Warriors guard enthusiastically embraced the nickname, even reciting it in Korean, showcasing his appreciation for his global fanbase.