There weren’t many expectations from the scrawny 20-year-old Davidson College graduate when he walked into the NBA scene in 2009. Little did the world know then, that he was a magician waiting to show his tricks. It didn’t take Stephen Curry too long to tell the world (precisely the critics) that he’s here to stay—he’s the next big thing in the league. Sixteen years later, the “skinny boy with weak ankles” sits among the Pantheon of the Elites as the rightful greatest sharpshooter the league has ever seen.

Well, things haven’t been easy for the Chef in the league. Stephen Curry‘s injury woes early on in his career and a trophyless streak kept him on the detractors’ radar. But things began to change post-2014 when the first ring graced his hands. However, Steph has learned valuable lessons from the NBA and he shared his learning on the Dub Talk podcast just not too long ago.

“I think in the NBA, obviously, you have a goal. Everybody wants to win a championship, and everything that you do is built towards that. 82 games, a two-month playoff run. It’s hard to almost drive yourself crazy,” the 36-year-old Warriors superhero stated.

So, a way of coping with the stress of the competition and its drama is breathing and mindfulness. Stephen Curry shared: “Breathing and all that type of mindfulness work helps to kind of calm your nerves. I’ve done a lot more of that later in my career. And a lot of that just comes with knowing how your body responds in the heat of battle and the emotions of it all.”

Steph further emphasized the importance of focusing on the present and trusting the process, rather than constantly fixating on the ultimate goal. He suggests that obsessing over the “end goal” can be overwhelming or counterproductive. Instead, Curry believes in embracing the daily work and preparation required, even if the outcome is uncertain.

The point guard pointed out how different the league is now than before. Of course, with time, things have evolved and the competition is more hungry than ever. Everyone wants to become the champion, everyone wants to be the best in the league. Moreover, the excitement of the youth days does alter into performance stress with age. But, both are unique and fun experiences for Steph.

“Only thing that matters” – Stephen Curry’s hunger for the championship will push for the fifth ring

Steph years for a fifth ring. “Honestly, it’s the only thing I’m really playing for at this point,” he confessed. “It’s the only thing that matters in the sense of accomplishment.” At 36, basketball remains Stephen Curry’s greatest passion, alongside his wife and four wonderful children. His enduring love for the game fuels his desire to keep contributing to the sport he’s cherished all his life. With the drive to achieve even more, Curry is determined to chase the long-awaited fifth championship ring.

Curry is doing what he does best—dominating. Through 10 games, he’s a sharpshooter on a mission. Averaging 23 points. Draining 47.9% of his shots. Splashing 42.7% from deep. Oh, and the free throws? He’s a near-perfect 94.3%. The Warriors may struggle at the line, but Curry’s in a league of his own.

The NBA Clutch Player of the Year continues to prove why he’s equal to the King, LeBron James himself. Stephen Curry is always the one bringing his team out of critical situations. And such heroics make us speculate just one thing: A fifth banner for the Warriors is on the way with Steph on the top of his game.

Stephen Curry isn’t done yet. Four rings? Not enough. Another one? Oh, it’s coming. A fifth championship, maybe another Finals MVP—he’s ready to show the world he’’ still the man to lead the Dubs to glory. Buckle up. The Chef is cooking.