In the same vein that Stephen Curry — a threat to shoot the ball the second he crosses half court — forced defenses to adjust to his game, Patrick Mahomes was a disruptor from the get-go in his sport of football.

During Mahomes’ first three seasons as a starter, the Chiefs led the league with the most explosive passing plays, and even set the record for most points scored in a postseason game. As a result, opposing defenses were forced to play with two high safeties to limit explosive plays and keep offenses in front of them.

Similarly, Curry’s ability to move without the ball and shoot threes forced NBA defenses to have at least one player roaming as a free safety to chase Curry, and another defender focused on the player setting the screen for him to get loose.

As the old adage goes, game recognizes game. In the past, Mahomes and Curry have shared their mutual admiration for one another, and the Chiefs quarterback said he’d play like Curry if he played basketball instead of football.

“If I played basketball, I’d be just like Steph Curry,” Mahomes said. “I got the shot. I’ve just gotta get a couple of extra reps, you know, and I’d be shooting just like him. That’s who I’ll be.”

Mahomes says his NBA comp would be Steph pic.twitter.com/mQFoVbAMtV

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 6, 2024

Last July, Curry and Klay Thompson squared off against Mahomes and Travis Kelce in “The Match” – a celebrity golf game that Kelce dubbed “the best duo in football against the best duo in basketball.” The footballers prevailed 4&2 after Kelce drained a short putt to match Curry’s birdie. After the game, Mahomes gave Curry his flowers by referring to him as “a great golfer.”

Ahead of Sunday’s Super Bowl LVIII, Curry has admitted that it’s a “win-win kind of vibe” in his household. While he’d be thrilled to see his friend, Mahomes, capture his third championship, he’d be equally happy to see his adopted hometown team, the Niners, rally to a Super Bowl victory.

Steph Curry gives his Super Bowl thoughts, but not really a prediction”Obviously, being here you’d love to see the Niners get it done. I do love Mahomes and Kelce… in my household it’s just a win-win kind of vibe.” pic.twitter.com/XE8LlmJnw4

— KNBR (@KNBR) January 31, 2024