The Warriors begin the defense of their NBA crown at the Oracle Arena on Thursday in a dream repeat of last year’s finals, which saw Golden State win the title against an injury-hit Cavaliers team.
The Cavaliers have arrived in California firing on all cylinders, with their big three of James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love all fit and ready as they bid to avenge last year’s 4-2 series defeat.
The Warriors meanwhile arrived in the finals after a Houdini act against the Thunder in the Western Conference finals, coming back from 3-1 down to complete a stunning 4-3 win on Monday.
Two-time NBA MVP Curry told reporters Wednesday the Warriors were brimming with belief after their win over the Thunder – and urged the Dubs to unleash the same sort of hunger against the Cavs on Thursday.
‘‘We have to bring that same mentality that got us out of the hole 3-1 to game one with the score 0-0,’’ Curry said.
‘‘And if we can do that and play with that same hunger and that same fire as if we’re playing in an elimination game, I really, really like our chances.
‘‘But that’s going to be the challenge for us to, against a different team with a different game plan – bring that same mindset and take advantage of home court in game one.’’
‘‘We have a lot of confidence right now and we’ve been through a lot in the last week and we’ve been challenged physically and mentally,’’ he said.