Steph Curry, the celebrated NBA star, received a significant honor as a portion of Highway I-77 was renamed the Stephen Curry Interchange during a halftime ceremony at Davidson College on November 14, 2023. The event was marked by the presence of his family, former teammates, and coaches, reflecting on the profound impact Curry has had on the university and the sport of basketball.
During the ceremony, Curry took a moment to express his gratitude for the journey that led him to this milestone. “The way I’m looking at it, anyone who has passed that interchange or passes that sign who has been a part of my journey, helped me get there, hopefully they feel a little bit of pride in that,” he stated after a game against the Charlotte Hornets. The recognition highlights his connection to Davidson College, where he first gained national attention.
A Journey Rooted in Excellence
Curry’s remarkable career began at Davidson, located approximately 20 minutes north of Charlotte. He made a name for himself as a freshman by earning All-Southern Conference honors and later played a pivotal role in leading the Wildcats to the NCAA tournament in 2008. Under the guidance of coach Bob McKillop, Curry’s talent shone brightly as he helped the team reach the Elite Eight, showcasing his scoring ability and deep shooting range.
McKillop, who coached Curry throughout his collegiate career, remarked, “His fingerprints are all over Davidson College, not just Davidson basketball. He is the most storied graduate of a school that’s been around for 150 years.” Curry’s success paved the way for his selection in the NBA draft, where he was chosen by the Golden State Warriors.
Even after 17 years since his departure from Davidson, Curry has maintained a strong connection with the institution. Earlier this year, he took on the role of assistant general manager for both the men’s and women’s basketball programs. McKillop noted, “He has never, ever forgotten where he came from, or the need to show gratitude.”
A Night of Celebration and Reflection
The ceremony was attended by many notable figures, including current and former players such as Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler. Green commented on the significance of the honor, stating, “People get, like, interstates and exchanges and exits and highways named after them when they die, not when you’re living. That’s living legend status.”
Davidson President Douglas Hicks also praised Curry’s impact, saying, “Everybody knows that the entrance to Davidson is Exit 30, and we hope that your heart will always lead you back to Davidson and Davidson College.” The renaming serves as a lasting tribute to Curry’s contributions both on and off the court.
Curry’s humility was evident as he reflected on the honor. He humorously added, “Don’t call me, though, if you get a speeding ticket,” after scoring 26 points in the game against the Hornets. This blend of humility and humor underscores his character as a role model and community leader.
As Curry continues to excel in his professional career and contribute to the community, the newly named Stephen Curry Interchange stands as a reminder of his enduring legacy and the inspiration he provides to future generations. The tribute not only celebrates a remarkable athlete but also honors the values of hard work and dedication that he embodies.
