Stephen Curry hails from a profoundly basketball-centric family.
Dell Curry, Stephen Curry’s father, enjoyed a lengthy career as a professional basketball player spanning nearly two decades. The story of Dell and Sonya Curry, Stephen’s mom, began at Virginia Tech, where they met and eventually tied the knot in 1988. Over the years, their family expanded to include a daughter named Sydel and two sons, Steph and Seth. However, in August 2021, after 33 years of marriage, Dell and Sonya publicly announced their decision to divorce.
In November 2020, Stephen Curry shared insights about his parents. He highlighted his mother Sonya’s role as an educator, emphasizing how giving back was an integral part of her job. Stephen described her commitment to staying after school, assisting children, engaging with their parents, and uplifting spirits, often at the cost of personal time. Reflecting on his father Dell, the NBA star praised his consistent involvement in community initiatives every time he had the opportunity. According to Stephen, Dell was always present and made significant contributions to the community.
To delve deeper into the dynamics of Steph Curry’s family, including firsthand quotes from the basketball sensation himself, continue reading. It all began for Dell and Sonya at college, where their paths first crossed.
According to The San Francisco Chronicle, Sonya Curry first encountered her future husband during a men’s basketball practice at Virginia Tech while on her official recruiting visit. Following Dell Curry’s NBA draft selection, the couple later moved to Utah to accommodate his professional career with the Utah Jazz. Dell Curry, indeed, made a name for himself as an NBA player.
Dell Curry’s NBA journey spanned from 1986 to 2002, during which he played for various teams including the Utah Jazz, Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Toronto Raptors. Notably, he gained recognition as a standout point guard during his time with the Charlotte Hornets.
In a 2020 interview with Reuters, Dell emphasized that he instilled the fundamentals of the game and the art of shooting in his sons. Having been immersed in the basketball world, observing both himself and some of the top players globally, Dell played a pivotal role in imparting valuable lessons on how professionals approach the game. However, he stressed the importance of his sons developing their own work ethic and dedication, relying on their self-control and determination.
Dell Curry’s achievements include being the all-time leading scorer for the Charlotte Hornets and earning induction into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame in 1996. Since 2009, he has served as a commentator for the Charlotte Hornets on television broadcasts, actively supporting his three sons in their NBA careers.
Sonya and Dell Curry, proud parents of three children, embarked on their family journey in 1988 with the birth of their first son, Steph, followed by Seth in 1990, and Sydel in 1994. The Currys now enjoy the role of grandparents to six grandchildren, with Seth and Callie Rivers Currys having two children, Carter and Cash, and Steph and Ayesha Curry blessed with three children, Riley, Ryan, and Canon. In 2021, Sydel and her husband Damion Lee welcomed their first child, a son.
Steph Curry, a two-time NBA MVP and champion, acknowledges his mother’s influence on his success. He attributes his defensive abilities and grit to Sonya, describing her as a strong woman who played a pivotal role in shaping their characters, particularly during Dell’s frequent NBA travels. Both Dell and Sonya actively engage in charitable work, establishing the Christian Montessori School of Lake Norman in 1995 and the Dell Curry Foundation in 1998, aiming to support and empower young people.
However, after 33 years of marriage, Dell and Sonya announced their divorce in August 2021. Despite the challenges, they expressed gratitude for their good fortune and achievements, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the next generation.
Sonya, a mother of three, shares her experiences in the upcoming memoir “Fierce Love,” scheduled for release in May 2022. The book explores her journey as a mother, her reliance on faith during tough times, and her dedication to her children’s education.
The Currys came together to celebrate Steph’s NBA victory in 2022, where Sonya and Dell witnessed their son’s achievement as a four-time NBA champion and the 2022 NBA Finals MVP.
Dell, familiar with the demands of the NBA, maintains a close connection with his sons, checking in with them at least once a week. While basketball is part of their conversations, they often discuss golf, grandkids, and life beyond the court. Dell recognizes the importance of supporting his sons not just as players but as individuals navigating the challenges of professional basketball.