NBA phenom Stephen Curry says he takes a shot of rare python venom before every game. The Golden State Warrior MVP is having an outstanding season as he leads his team to the best record in the league.
It’s a special leiopython from New Guinea that ancient civilizations said the venom can induce magical powers when enough is consumed. Too much can lead to death.
“I love the stuff,” Curry told the San Francisco Chronicles. “I literally become the ball when I drink the venom. From the moment the ball leaves my hand, l see as through I am the ball. It’s a bit crazy but true. It’s a very strange feeling to control the ball while in mid-air.”
Scientists say the venom is very lethal but if you start with a very small dose, over time your body builds a tolerance and you can increase your uptake. At a high enough level it may induce super human abilities, but conclusive scientific studies have not been performed and its dangers are unknown, especially its long term effect.
“I started taking it four years ago a little a time. If I took too much, I’d be sick for days. It was like death,” said Curry. “But over six of seven months it became tolerable, and now I can take a whole shot of it. It’s a good idea to chase it with Gatorade cause that venom tastes like acidic gasoline”
1.5 ounces of the rare venom cost about $4,500. Fortunately, Curry can afford it. “I’m thinking about investing in a python farm,” Curry joked. “Hey, I’ve seen people take five thousand dollar shots of tequila. I’ll stick wit my venom.”
Under the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, there is no ban on drinking snake venom.
While some say the venom might produce a placebo effect, there is no question it’s working as the All-Star constantly drains 3-point shots from half court on a daily basis. Curry is averaging over 30 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds per game this season on the best team in the league and is looking to repeat as NBA Champions.
Several teammates said they started taking the venom too but are only at the ‘droplet’ phase on days off until they can build up their immunity and tolerance to the deadly poison. A team of Stephen Currys would be unstoppable.
