Stephen Curry has built a reputation as one of the most fearless and clutch shooters in basketball history. Whether it’s a game-winner from deep or a shot to shift the momentum in favor of his team, the Golden State Warriors superstar has consistently shown his ability to deliver in the biggest moments. This skill was on full display during a recent international game when Curry hit a contested dagger shot against France, sealing a crucial victory for Team USA. After the game, Curry opened up about what was running through his mind as he took that decisive shot.
The Moment: Team USA vs. France
The game between Team USA and France was highly anticipated, pitting two basketball powerhouses against each other on the international stage. As the game clock wound down, the contest remained tightly contested, with both teams battling fiercely on both ends of the floor. Team USA, led by a blend of seasoned NBA stars and young talent, faced a French team that had proven to be a formidable opponent in recent tournaments.
With just over a minute left and Team USA clinging to a slim lead, the ball found its way to Curry, who was tightly guarded on the perimeter. As the shot clock ticked down, Curry sized up his defender, took a dribble to create a sliver of space, and launched a high-arching three-pointer over the outstretched arm of his defender. The ball sailed through the air before swishing through the net, effectively putting the game out of reach for France.
Curry’s Mental Approach: Trusting the Process
After the game, Stephen Curry shared what was going through his mind during that critical moment. For Curry, taking a contested shot with the game on the line is nothing new, but it requires a unique mindset. He emphasized the importance of staying confident and trusting the hours of preparation that go into making those moments possible.
“I’ve been in those situations so many times, it’s about trusting your instincts and trusting the work you’ve put in,” Curry explained. “You have to believe that every shot you take is going in, especially when it matters most. As soon as I got the ball, I knew it was my moment to step up and make a play.”
Curry’s ability to maintain focus in high-pressure situations is one of the reasons he is so effective in late-game scenarios. He described how, even with a defender in his face, he zeroes in on his mechanics, relying on muscle memory to take over. The confidence that comes from countless hours in the gym allows him to execute, even when the odds seem stacked against him.
The Importance of Staying in the Moment
For Curry, being able to stay present and not overthink the moment is key when taking a contested shot. He mentioned that he blocks out the noise, focusing solely on the rim and the feel of the ball leaving his fingertips. In that instant, nothing else matters—not the roaring crowd, the pressure of representing his country, or the defender challenging the shot.
“When you’re in the heat of the moment, you can’t let anything else distract you,” Curry said. “It’s just you and the basket. You take the shot you’ve practiced a thousand times before. That’s what was going through my mind—just make sure my form is right and trust that it’ll go in.”
His ability to stay composed in these moments is part of what makes Curry such a special player. While most would be rattled by the pressure, he sees it as an opportunity to elevate his game. This mental fortitude has defined his career, from game-winners in the NBA Finals to clutch performances on the international stage.
A Shot That Reflects Curry’s Evolution
Curry’s dagger against France wasn’t just another highlight—it was a testament to his growth as a player and a leader. While he has always been known for his shooting ability, his willingness to take responsibility for critical moments and lead his team is a testament to his evolution. In sharing his thought process, Curry revealed that his approach to the game has matured over the years.
“Being in these moments is a privilege. You learn to appreciate the challenge and enjoy it,” Curry said. “Early in my career, I might have been more nervous, but now it’s about enjoying the moment and embracing the challenge. It’s about knowing that my teammates trust me to make that shot.”
Curry’s shot against France not only sealed the win but also served as a reminder of why he is regarded as one of the greatest shooters of all time. It showed that even in the most pressure-packed situations, he is capable of delivering with poise and precision.
Looking Ahead: Curry’s Focus on the Future
With the win over France, Team USA continues to build momentum in their quest for international success, and Curry’s leadership is a key part of that journey. As he continues to compete on the world stage, Curry’s focus remains on helping his team achieve their goals, using moments like these to inspire confidence in himself and his teammates.
His performance against France serves as a reminder that even at this stage of his career, Curry remains one of the most dangerous players in basketball, capable of changing the course of a game with a single shot. As he reflects on the moment, he also looks ahead to new challenges, eager to continue proving himself in every arena.
For Stephen Curry, taking a contested dagger shot is about more than just scoring points—it’s about embracing the pressure, trusting his preparation, and seizing the moment when the game is on the line. And as he continues to add to his legacy, fans around the world can’t wait to see what he does next.