Steph Curry was incredible against the Spurs in the Western Conference Finals.
Over four games, he averaged 31.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 3.0 steals, while shooting over 56 percent from the field and just under 47 percent from 3-point territory.
Following Game 4 on Monday night, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich was asked about the two-time MVP.
"He's taken on the responsibility to be a star every night. A lot of people can't do that. That's number one," Popovich explained to reporters. "And number two -- he's had the wisdom to make his game even more solid. A little bit less mustard and a little bit more fundamentally sound -- which reduces turnovers, gets more shots for teammates -- so he's been willing to tone it a little bit over the past few years. And possessions are that much more powerful."
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Back in 2013, Curry racked up 44 points and 11 assists against San Antonio in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals.
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But the Spurs held him in check the rest of the series -- 18.2 points and 6.0 assists on 36 percent shooting over Games 2 through 6.
The following season, Curry made his first All-Star Game and All-NBA team.
He then claimed the MVP in 2015 and became the first unanimous MVP in NBA history in 2016.
So is there a third reason to help explain Curry's ascension?
"And obviously his confidence has gone through the roof because he realizes what he does is special," Popovich added. "But it doesn't diminish his attitude and approach and edge as he approaches every game. He's very special."
