Stephen Curry and Gary Payton II have built a special bond both on and off the Chase Center floor. Their relationship goes beyond basketball — they’re partners in pranks, allies in fun, and a vital part of the Golden State Warriors’ team spirit.
Curry reportedly pushed the team to re-sign Payton during the last offseason, and he recently showed just how much he enjoys having him around — this time through a playful prank.
The prank that sparked laughter across San Francisco
During an open Warriors practice in San Francisco, Curry decided to pull off an unforgettable joke on his teammate. According to The Sports Rush, the point guard called Payton to tell him that a fan was asking for his autograph. What seemed like a friendly gesture quickly turned into one of the funniest moments of the day. Before Payton arrived, Curry whispered something to the fan.
Steph made this fan pretend to ask Gary Payton II for an autograph just to flip him off 💀
(via josephbangalan / IG, h/t @TheWarriorsTalk)pic.twitter.com/2rtTTyZKqF— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 11, 2025
As Payton approached the courtside seat, the supposed admirer greeted him by flipping him off. For a brief moment, everyone went silent. Then, realizing something was off, Payton burst into laughter. Seconds later, Curry appeared, laughing uncontrollably, confirming it was one of his classic pranks.
A glimpse of the Warriors’ team spirit
Instead of getting upset, Payton joined the fun, and both players posed for a photo with the fan. Curry even gave his prank partner a signed shoe as a memento. Though small, the gesture perfectly reflected the strong chemistry within the team.
In the Bay Area, few players are as beloved as Gary Payton II, a key piece since the 2022 championship run. And one thing is certain — as long as Stephen Curry leads the Warriors, lighthearted pranks will remain part of Dub Nation’s DNA.
