Steph Curry, the celebrated NBA star, received a significant honor on March 15, 2024, as part of a highway in North Carolina was officially renamed in his recognition. During halftime at a Davidson men’s basketball game held at John M. Belk Arena, the section of I-77, specifically Exit 30, was designated as the Stephen Curry Interchange. This gesture not only highlights Curry’s remarkable career but also his enduring connection to the college he once attended.
A Legacy of Achievement
As Curry stood before a cheering crowd that included his family, former teammates, and the university community, he reflected on the journey that brought him to this moment. “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,” Curry remarked after the Golden State Warriors’ victory over the Charlotte Hornets.
Curry’s path to success began at Davidson College, located just 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte. During his time there, he earned All-Southern Conference honors and, as a sophomore, led the Wildcats to the NCAA tournament in 2008. His performance that season was pivotal, culminating in an impressive Elite 8 run, solidifying his status as a college basketball star. “His fingerprints are all over Davidson College, not just Davidson basketball,” said Bob McKillop, his former coach, reflecting on Curry’s lasting impact.
A Commitment to Community
Seventeen years after his college graduation, Curry remains deeply involved with Davidson. Earlier this year, he took on the role of assistant general manager for both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, a position that underscores his commitment to fostering the next generation of athletes. McKillop, who retired in 2022 after 33 years, praised Curry’s humility and dedication: “He has never, ever forgotten where he came from, or the need to show gratitude.”
Davidson College has recognized Curry’s accomplishments in various ways over the years. Following the Warriors’ fourth championship win in 2022, the school retired his jersey, commemorating his significant contributions to basketball and the institution.
During the ceremony for the highway naming, Douglas Hicks, president of Davidson College, expressed his admiration for Curry. “Everybody knows that the entrance to Davidson is Exit 30, and we hope that your heart will always lead you back to (the town) Davidson and Davidson College,” he told the audience.
Among the attendees were notable figures from the basketball world, including Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. Green highlighted the uniqueness of the honor, stating, “People get things named after them when they die, not when you’re living. That’s living legend status.”
Throughout the evening, Curry maintained a tone of humility as he celebrated this achievement. “Don’t call me, though, if you get a speeding ticket,” he quipped, bringing levity to the occasion while recognizing the significance of the honor.
With the renaming of Exit 30, Steph Curry’s legacy continues to inspire both current students and alumni of Davidson College, serving as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community and beyond.
