Stephen Curry: Underrated” Unveils the Journey from Davidson College to NBA Superstardom

When Stephen Curry transitioned from a standout college basketball career at Davidson College in North Carolina to the professional ranks, NBA scouts were quick to dismiss him. Describing his athleticism as “far below NBA standard” and advising against relying on him to lead a team, the scouts doubted his potential.

However, the Apple Original Films documentary, “Stephen Curry: Underrated,” directed by Peter Nicks and featuring a stellar production team, highlights how Curry defied those initial assessments. The film delves into Curry’s journey, exploring the scouting report that underestimated him and his unwavering belief in his capabilities despite being labeled underrated.

During an appearance at Deadline’s Contenders Film: Documentary event, Nicks explained, “We discovered that scouting report, which basically did not see his potential. And we also discovered sort of his inner mentality, which is very much a belief that he was, is, and always will be underrated despite everything that he’s achieved.”

With four NBA championships under his belt, Curry has not only proven himself on the court but has also transformed the game itself. The documentary emphasizes his impact on shifting the basketball landscape from a focus on big men under the basket to deadly shooters beyond the arc, with Curry holding the record for most career 3-pointers made.

Despite facing size disadvantages throughout his career, Curry’s evolution as a player is credited to his father, Del Curry, a former pro. The documentary highlights how Del Curry played a crucial role in refining his son’s shooting technique, ultimately influencing the NBA by teaching Steph to elevate his release.

Bob McKillip, Curry’s college coach at Davidson, plays a supporting role in the documentary, showcasing the pivotal decisions that shaped Curry’s trajectory. Nicks emphasized the authenticity of the film, steering away from the trend of featuring celebrities and opting for organic connections to Curry’s story.

Nicks, known for his documentary trilogy about Oakland, expressed how “Stephen Curry: Underrated” aligns with his broader cinematic work, emphasizing themes of family, community, and mentorship. The documentary transcends the narrative of a celebrity athlete, offering a profound exploration of Curry’s personal and professional journey.