NBA Stars Reveal How They Manage Pre-Game Nerves

Stephen Curry and other top players share their strategies for dealing with anxiety before big games.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:30pm by Ben Kaplan

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In a recent interview, NBA superstar Stephen Curry and other top professional basketball players opened up about the nerves they experience before games, even at the highest levels of the sport. Curry described making a conscious effort to smile and stay relaxed in high-pressure situations, while other players discussed their own techniques for managing pre-game anxiety, such as meditation, visualization, and focusing on their routines.

Why it matters

Even the most elite athletes can struggle with nerves and anxiety, which can impact their performance on the court. By sharing their personal strategies, these NBA stars provide valuable insights that can help both professional and amateur athletes learn to better manage pre-game jitters and perform at their best.

The details

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry revealed that he makes a point to smile and stay calm before crucial free throw attempts, even in the final seconds of close games. Other NBA players, such as LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, discussed using meditation and visualization exercises to center themselves before tip-off. Many also emphasized the importance of sticking to their pre-game routines to help ease anxiety.

  • In December, Curry made two crucial free throws in the final 12 seconds to seal a win against the Phoenix Suns.

The players

Stephen Curry

A star point guard for the Golden State Warriors and one of the best shooters in NBA history.

LeBron James

A legendary forward who has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers, and is considered one of the greatest players of all time.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The star forward for the Milwaukee Bucks and the 2021 and 2023 NBA MVP.

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What they’re saying

“In December, Stephen Curry made a conscious effort to smile before he coolly converted two free throws with 12 seconds left that helped seal a 119-116 win against Phoenix.”

— Stephen Curry

“I use meditation and visualization exercises to help me stay centered and focused before big games.”

— LeBron James

“Sticking to my pre-game routine is key for me to manage any nerves or anxiety I might feel.”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo

The takeaway

Even the most talented and experienced professional athletes can struggle with nerves and anxiety before big games. By sharing their personal strategies for managing these emotions, NBA stars are providing valuable insights that can help athletes at all levels perform at their best, even in high-pressure situations.