Steph Curry’s Unfinished Business: Chasing a Fifth Ring to Cement His Legacy

At 36 years old, with an Olympic gold medal now added to his overflowing trophy case, Steph Curry has essentially done it all in basketball. From revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting to winning multiple championships with the Golden State Warriors, Curry’s legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is secure. Yet, as he approaches his 37th birthday this Friday, he remains as determined as ever to compete at the highest level.

In February, he added another milestone to his illustrious career, logging his 14th 50-point game. His leadership has also propelled the Warriors to a strong stretch of play, winning nine of their last ten games and igniting hope for another deep playoff run. Despite all his accolades, including four NBA championships, two MVP awards, a Finals MVP, a FIBA World Cup gold medal, and now an Olympic gold medal with Team USA, one goal continues to drive him forward: winning a fifth championship.

Steph Curry’s Drive for Greatness

Curry recently sat down with Matt Steinmetz and Evan Giddings on 95.7 The Game, where he reflected on his career and what keeps him motivated after achieving virtually everything a basketball player could dream of.

“I know I’m going to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. I know my legacy is pretty much set. But if you ask me what still keeps me up at night, it’s chasing that fifth ring.”

For many, four championships and a legacy as the greatest shooter in NBA history would be enough. But for Curry, his competitive spirit and desire to maximize every moment on the court continue to fuel his fire.

A Career Defined by Winning and Revolutionizing the Game

When Curry was drafted seventh overall in 2009, no one could have predicted the impact he would have on the NBA. Over the years, he transformed the game with his elite shooting, breaking records and inspiring a new generation of players. His ability to hit shots from anywhere on the court, combined with his ball-handling and off-ball movement, has changed how teams approach offense.

His list of accolades speaks for itself:

• 4× NBA Champion (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022)
• 2× NBA MVP (2015, 2016 – the first-ever unanimous MVP)
• NBA Finals MVP (2022)
• 10× NBA All-Star
• Olympic Gold Medalist (2024, Paris)
• FIBA World Cup Gold Medalist (2010, 2014)
• All-Time NBA Three-Point Leader

Despite all this, Curry’s hunger for another title is evident. With LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant all having at least five championships, Curry knows that a fifth ring could further elevate his standing in the greatest-of-all-time conversations.

Golden State’s Rollercoaster Season and Their Playoff Push

The Warriors have faced their fair share of challenges this season, from injuries to inconsistent play. At times, critics have questioned whether their championship window has closed. However, Curry has been the steady force keeping the team competitive, particularly during their recent hot streak.

The emergence of younger players like Jonathan Kuminga, combined with the veteran presence of Draymond Green and Klay Thompson, has given Golden State renewed hope. With Curry leading the way, the Warriors are once again looking like a team no one wants to face in the postseason.

Curry himself has been putting up vintage performances, proving that age is just a number. His 50-point outburst in February was a reminder that he remains one of the most dangerous scorers in the league.

How a Fifth Championship Would Impact Curry’s Legacy

If Curry manages to win another championship, it would place him in elite company. Only a handful of players in NBA history have won five or more titles while being the face of their franchise. His impact on the game is already undeniable, but a fifth ring would:

• Further separate him from his contemporaries like Kevin Durant and James Harden, who have fewer titles.
• Put him on equal footing with Kobe Bryant (5 championships) and closer to the likes of Michael Jordan (6) and LeBron James (4, but still playing).
• Prove that he can still lead a team to a championship late in his career, similar to how LeBron won a title with the Lakers in 2020.

Even without another title, Curry’s influence on basketball will endure for generations. But for a competitor like him, the chase for more rings is what keeps him going.

What’s Next for Curry and the Warriors?

With the playoffs approaching, the Warriors’ championship hopes rest largely on Curry’s shoulders. If they can stay healthy and find their rhythm, they have a chance to make another deep run. Curry has proven time and time again that he thrives under pressure, and if he has his way, he’ll be adding another Larry O’Brien Trophy to his collection.

As he turns 37, one thing remains clear: Steph Curry isn’t done yet. And as long as he’s on the court, the Warriors will always have a shot at glory.