Curry to Gilas: Always play with confidence and show heart

MANILA, Philippines – The Golden State Warriors won their first championship in 40 years in the NBA last season using small ball anchored on unselfish plays and smothering defense.

At the center of it all is the reigning MVP Stephen Curry, whose sick handles and precise shooting either made you fall in love or broke a lot of ankles and hearts depending on which side are you on.

The Gilas Pilipinas, who is shooting for the Olympic Dream, can learn a lot from the Warriors and his main man.

Like the typical Filipino players, Curry is not gifted with the size and athleticism that can easily translate to success on the court.  

“My confidence is built on hardwork,” Curry said.

His game which has become the toast of the NBA was made in the gym spending a lot of hours working on his dribbling and moves, hoisting hundreds of jumpers every day in anticipation of how to overcome the size disadvantage on the court.

“I spent a lot of time in the gym.  You have to work hard,” he continued.  "In those times you feel lazy and just want to watch TV, that's when you have to really go to the gym."

Asked what his advice is to the Philippine national team, Curry pointed to what Gilas is all about.

“Don’t hold anything back. Show some heart. Play with confidence,” said the unassuming NBA superstar.

“You can’t measure heart. If you’re determined, you focused on your goal, you can make it.”

Curry came to Manila this weekend to connect with his Filipino fans and carry this message of inspiration.  

Under Armour hit the jackpot in Curry. The 6-foot-3 Golden State main man is the perfect poster boy – a champion and a proven winner with a clean image.

Wearing a white Under Armour shirt with the “Thrilla in Manila” emblazoned on the chest, Curry instantly melted the hearts of his Filipino fans when he said this won’t certainly be the last time he’ll set foot here.

“This is my first time and it won’t be my last time.  I’m coming back for sure,” Curry told a packed ballroom at Fairmont Hotel in Makati on Saturday.

A few hours before he was to showcase his killer crossovers and precise shooting at the Mall of Asia Arena, it was his killer smile and precise answers which captivated the local media.

“I’ve been anticipating this for a long time. In the last two months on Twitter, I’ve received so much love from my Filipino fans,” Curry said.

“It’s unbelievable.”