Here's even more proof that Steph Curry and Lebron James rule the NBA universe

Two players dominate this list of most popular Instagram posts.
 By 
Jacob Lauing
 on 
Here's even more proof that Steph Curry and Lebron James rule the NBA universe
Steph Curry is bigger than the NBA. Credit: Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

If you weren't already convinced that the NBA universe revolves around Steph Curry and LeBron James, here's your proof.

All-Star Weekend is upon us, meaning we've reached the de facto halfway point in the 2016-17 NBA season. Instagram has pulled data on the most popular posts of this season's first half. Much like on the court, Curry and James dominate the league online.

The top six posts, determined by a combination of likes and comments, not only tell the story of the first half, but paint a picture of two players whose popularity transcends the league.

6. LeBron James' tribute to the late Craig Sager

The basketball world collectively mourned the loss of Craig Sager, a legendary, beloved NBA broadcaster who died in December after battling leukemia. He'll be remembered for his kindness, professionalism and, of course, his wild suits.

His death cast a somber shadow on this season's early weeks.

5. Steph Curry the double selfie machine

Smiles all around. Just Making sure I capture the moment right. 😁

A post shared by Wardell Curry (@stephencurry30) on

Again, Curry's universal fame makes him a mainstay of this list. Fans love Steph, his wife Ayesha Curry, and his two daughters. But more on that later.

4. Curry brotherly love

Stories to tell the GrandKids! #FOE @sdotcurry

A post shared by Wardell Curry (@stephencurry30) on

Steph has undoubtedly eclipsed his younger brother Seth in both talent and popularity, but the two are obviously still close, and the world can't get enough of anything to do with Steph's family.

3. Richard Jefferson's big dunk on Klay Thompson

NBA veteran and Cavaliers forward Richard Jefferson posterized the Warriors' Klay Thompson with this epic dunk on Christmas Day. Jefferson is 36, despite LeBron James' joke in his Instagram caption. Nonetheless, it was an impressive display of athleticism from a pretty senior player.

That game marked the first meeting between Cleveland and Golden State since last year's NBA Finals. Many are anticipating a rematch between the two teams, considering they've both led their respective conferences for most of the year.

2. The King gets his ring

Speaking of the NBA Finals, Cleveland won its first ever last June, with LeBron James fulfilling a promise he made to his hometown when he returned to the Cavaliers in 2014. It took a couple seasons, but LeBron finally got that coveted ring.

And he won it by beating Steph Curry's Warriors.

1. Family Goals with the Currys

Merry Christmas y'all. Enjoy your family time and Don't forget the reason for the season! 🙏🏽

A post shared by Wardell Curry (@stephencurry30) on

Here it is. The top post of the first half. It has absolutely nothing to do with basketball, and everything to do with a beautiful family that has taken the NBA by storm.

The NBA belongs to Curry and James. Everyone else is just playing in it.

Mashable Image
Jacob Lauing

Jacob is Mashable's Sports Intern. He graduated from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, where he studied journalism and served as editor-in-chief of Mustang News, Cal Poly's student newspaper. Some of Jacob's favorite activities include watching baseball, playing music and eating bagels.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
How to watch NBA live streams online for free
Male basketball player dunks the ball with two hands. Close up on the rim, net and ball.

How to watch Magic vs. Pacers online for free
Basketball going through hoop

How to watch Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves online for free
Basketball going through hoop

How to watch Magic vs. Grizzlies online for free
Basketball going through hoop

How to watch Rockets vs. Thunder online for free
Basketball going through hoop

More in Entertainment

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma

NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.

What's new to streaming this week? (April 3, 2026)
A composite of images from film and TV streaming this week.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!