NBA icon Stephen Curry has showered accolades on football superstar Lionel Messi for his incredible influence on the global sports scene. After dominating European football for over 15 years, Messi made headlines by joining MLS team Inter Miami in 2023. His arrival in the U.S. has sparked a surge of interest in soccer, with stadium crowds swelling significantly last season. The MLS is also gaining traction in other parts of the world since Messi's move, and he has even helped Inter Miami qualify for this year's FIFA Club World Cup.

Curry, a key player for the Golden State Warriors and a major figure in American sports, shared his thoughts on Messi's remarkable impact.

“Greatness inspires greatness in many ways. You can’t really draw direct comparisons between football and basketball, but it’s all about longevity, creativity, and Messi’s influence on the sport globally,” Curry said to the media.

Messi, often considered the best footballer of all time, has really put a spotlight on soccer in the US. His move has also paved the way for other big stars to join MLS.

An NBA legend expressed his deep admiration for Messi, noting how he carries himself both on and off the pitch, something he strives to mirror in his own life.

“We definitely recognize greatness; he motivates you to keep pushing and doing things your own way. I have immense respect for how he maintains himself, both in and out of the game. I aim to follow that example," he shared.

On another note, Messi is gearing up for another preseason tour with Inter Miami. This time, it’s a five-match journey that will take the reigning MLS Supporters' Shield champions to four different countries as they prepare for the 2025 season. With 34 regular season MLS games, five preseason matches, and three cup tournaments, Inter Miami is set to play over 50 matches this season — and that’s not even counting the international games for Messi and likely other players on the team.

Here’s the lineup for Inter Miami's preseason matches:

On Saturday, January 18, America of Mexico will be playing at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Then on Wednesday, January 29, Club Universitario de Deportes takes the field at Estadio Monumental in Lima, Peru.

Next up, on Sunday, February 2, Sporting San Miguelito will face off at Estadio Rommel Fernandez Gutierrez in Panama City, Panama.

Following that, Saturday, February 8, Club Deportivo Olimpia will be at Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

Finally, on Friday, February 14, Orlando City will be playing at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

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