Dell Curry – Charlotte Hornets Legend Celebrates 20 Years Since Retirement
Dell Curry stands as one of the most iconic figures in Charlotte Hornets history. As an original member of the franchise, he established himself as a lethal shooter and reliable scorer during his decade with the team. Dell Curry remains one of the all-time leading scorers in Hornets history, leaving an indelible mark on the organization both on and off the court.
His impact extends beyond his playing days, as Curry transitioned to a commentator role for the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) in 2009, working alongside play-by-play announcer Steve Martin. The Virginia Tech product was selected 15th overall by Utah in the 1986 NBA Draft. He averaged 11.7 points per game throughout his NBA career while establishing a basketball legacy that would later be continued through his sons.
Curry’s basketball influence continues to resonate within the NBA landscape, as he and his son Seth carry on their family’s basketball tradition. His sharpshooting ability made him a fan favorite in Charlotte, where his consistent production off the bench earned him the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award in 1994, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s premier reserve players.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Dell Curry’s journey to NBA stardom began in Virginia, where his natural athletic abilities were evident from a young age. His formative years laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most respected shooting careers in professional basketball.
High School Achievements
At Fort Defiance High School in Virginia, Dell Curry established himself as an extraordinary talent on the basketball court. The Harrisonburg, Virginia native dominated local competition, leading his team to a state championship. His shooting touch was already becoming his trademark.
Curry wasn’t just a one-dimensional player. He displayed remarkable versatility, excelling as both a scorer and playmaker. His high school statistics reflected his all-around game:
| Category | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Points | 1,922 career points |
| Honors | Virginia State Player of the Year |
| Team Success | State Championship |
During his senior year, Curry averaged over 30 points per game, catching the attention of college recruiters nationwide. His performances earned him All-State honors and cemented his reputation as one of Virginia’s finest prep players.
Virginia Tech and College Career
Dell Curry chose to stay in his home state, accepting a scholarship to Virginia Tech. His impact was immediate. As a freshman, he averaged double-digit scoring and established himself as one of the ACC’s most promising young players.
By his senior year, Curry had developed into Virginia Tech’s offensive centerpiece. His shooting efficiency from beyond the arc foreshadowed his future NBA success. The 6’4″ guard finished his college career with impressive credentials:
- Three-time All-Metro Conference selection
- Virginia Tech’s all-time leading scorer (2,389 points)
- Metro Conference Player of the Year honors
His college performance made him highly coveted in the 1986 NBA Draft. The Utah Jazz selected Curry 15th overall, beginning his professional journey that would eventually lead him to Charlotte.
Multi-Sport Athlete
What many basketball fans don’t realize is that Dell Curry was an exceptional multi-sport athlete. While at Virginia Tech, he also played baseball at a high level. His prowess on the diamond was so significant that he was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 1982 MLB Draft.
Curry’s baseball skills as a pitcher showed professional potential. He possessed a fastball clocked in the low 90s and impressive control. This dual-sport ability gave him options few athletes ever have – pursuing careers in either MLB or the NBA.
Though basketball ultimately won out, Curry’s baseball background contributed to his hand-eye coordination and precision as a shooter. These skills transferred perfectly to his basketball career, where his shooting form became textbook-perfect.
NBA Draft and Early Years
Dell Curry’s journey to becoming a Charlotte Hornets legend began with his selection in the 1986 NBA Draft. His path to Charlotte included brief stints with two other franchises before finding his basketball home with the expansion Hornets.
Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers
The Utah Jazz selected Dell Curry with the 15th overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft. The 6’5″ guard from Virginia Tech showed promise as a perimeter shooter, but his time in Utah proved brief.
After just 67 games with the Jazz, Curry was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers during his rookie season. His statistics with both teams reflected the challenges many rookies face when adjusting to the NBA level:
| Team | Games | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | 67 | 4.9 | 1.5 | 0.9 | 46.2 |
| Cleveland | 51 | 8.9 | 1.8 | 1.6 | 45.1 |
Curry’s shooting touch began to emerge in Cleveland, where he showed flashes of the scoring ability that would later define his career.
Joining the Charlotte Hornets
When the NBA expanded in 1988, it created an opportunity that would change Curry’s career trajectory. The Cleveland Cavaliers left Curry unprotected in the expansion draft, making him available to the league’s newest franchises.
The Charlotte Hornets, entering their inaugural season, selected Curry as the second overall pick in the expansion draft. This decision would prove pivotal for both Curry and the franchise.
Charlotte provided Curry with stability and playing time. He quickly established himself as a reliable scoring option off the bench for the fledgling franchise.
The move to Charlotte marked the beginning of what would become a decade-long relationship. Curry signed a new contract on July 1, 1990, cementing his place with the Hornets and setting the stage for him to become one of the team’s most beloved players.
Career with the Hornets
Dell Curry spent an impressive 10 seasons with the Charlotte Hornets from 1988 to 1998, establishing himself as one of the franchise’s most iconic players. During his tenure, he developed into an elite shooting specialist and became a cornerstone of the team’s success throughout the 1990s.
Role and Performance
Dell Curry carved out a specific niche with the Hornets, primarily coming off the bench as a scoring specialist. His deadly accurate jump shot made him a constant threat from the perimeter. During his Charlotte years, Curry averaged 14.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 40.5% from three-point range.
The Virginia Tech product wasn’t expected to play lockdown defense or distribute the ball extensively. Instead, the Hornets deployed him as their designated scorer, a role he embraced with remarkable consistency.
Curry’s best statistical season with Charlotte came in 1993-94 when he averaged 16.3 points per game while shooting 45.8% from the field and 40.2% from beyond the arc.
| Season | PPG | 3PT% | FG% | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993-94 | 16.3 | 40.2% | 45.8% | 25.3 |
| 1994-95 | 13.6 | 42.6% | 46.0% | 24.2 |
| 1995-96 | 14.5 | 40.3% | 45.9% | 25.4 |
Sixth Man of the Year Award
The pinnacle of Curry’s Charlotte tenure came during the 1993-94 season when he was named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year. This prestigious award recognized his exceptional ability to provide instant offense off the bench.
During his award-winning campaign, Curry embraced his role as the team’s spark plug. He didn’t need to start games to make his presence felt, often entering when opponents’ starters needed rest.
His shooting efficiency made him particularly valuable. Curry’s ability to spread the floor created driving lanes for teammates like Muggsy Bogues and Larry Johnson, making the Hornets’ offense more dynamic and difficult to defend.
What made his Sixth Man campaign remarkable was how he could enter cold off the bench and immediately heat up, requiring minimal warm-up time to start hitting shots from all over the court.
All-Time Leader in Games Played and Three-Point Field Goals
Curry’s longevity and consistency with the Hornets earned him a special place in the franchise record books. He became the team’s all-time leader in games played during his Charlotte tenure, demonstrating both his durability and the organization’s trust in his abilities.
Even more impressive was his three-point shooting prowess. Curry set the franchise record for three-point field goals made, a testament to his specialized skill that made him such a valuable asset throughout the 1990s.
His three-point shooting percentage consistently ranked among the league’s best. During multiple seasons, Curry shot above 40% from beyond the arc, an elite level of efficiency that few players could match.
Later Career and Trades
After spending a decade with the Charlotte Hornets, Dell Curry’s NBA journey continued with stops in Milwaukee and Toronto. These final chapters showcased his veteran leadership and consistent shooting touch that defined his career.
Milwaukee Bucks Experience
Dell Curry’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks was brief but noteworthy. Following the 1998-99 season, Curry was traded from Charlotte after establishing himself as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer.
The Bucks acquired the sharpshooter primarily for his three-point shooting capabilities, which had become his calling card throughout the league. While in Milwaukee, Curry maintained his reputation as a reliable bench scorer.
His stint with the Bucks lasted just one season, but Curry continued to display the shooting touch that made him valuable. Despite limited minutes, his field goal and three-point percentages remained respectable.
Toronto Raptors Impact
The Toronto Raptors acquired Curry ahead of the 2000-01 season, giving the veteran shooter a new home for his final NBA years. In Toronto, Curry embraced his role as a seasoned bench contributor.
Curry’s experience proved valuable to a developing Raptors team. His shooting ability remained sharp even in the twilight of his career, connecting on nearly 40% of his three-point attempts in Toronto.
The Raptors valued Curry not only for his on-court contributions but also for his mentorship of younger players. His professional approach and work ethic served as a template for developing teammates.
| Season | Team | Games | PPG | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999-00 | Milwaukee | 42 | 6.1 | 40.2 |
| 2000-01 | Toronto | 80 | 6.7 | 40.4 |
| 2001-02 | Toronto | 51 | 3.3 | 38.1 |
Curry officially retired following the 2001-02 season with Toronto, ending a 16-year NBA career that demonstrated his remarkable consistency and shooting prowess.
Transition to Broadcasting
After retiring, Curry quickly found his second calling with the Charlotte Hornets organization. In 2009, he joined the Hornets’ broadcast team and became the color commentator for the franchise where he had made his greatest impact as a player.
His broadcasting style mirrors his playing days—calm, precise, and insightful. Curry brings analytical depth to broadcasts while maintaining an approachable demeanor that resonates with fans.
During the offseason, Curry remains active in Charlotte’s community. He runs basketball camps and participates in charity events, extending his influence beyond the microphone.
Legacy and Influence
Curry’s legacy extends far beyond his franchise scoring record of 9,839 points with the Hornets. His contribution to basketball’s evolution as a premier three-point specialist helped change how the game is played today.
His most significant influence may be through his sons, particularly Stephen Curry, who has revolutionized basketball with his otherworldly shooting. The father-son connection represents one of basketball’s most prominent family legacies.
The Hornets organization has considered retiring his No. 30 jersey to honor his contributions. Curry remains the franchise’s all-time leader in several statistical categories:
| Statistic | Total with Hornets |
|---|---|
| Points | 9,839 |
| 3-Pointers Made | 929 |
| Games Played | 701 |
As the recipient of the 1994 NBA 6th Man of the Year award, Curry’s basketball acumen continues to influence new generations of shooters.
Family and Personal Life
Dell Curry’s life off the court revolves around his family and personal interests. His greatest legacy might be his children, who have achieved remarkable success in basketball and beyond.
Father of NBA Stars
Dell married Sonya Curry in 1988 after meeting her at Virginia Tech. The couple welcomed three children who would each make their own mark on the world.
His oldest son, Wardell Stephen Curry II (known as Stephen or “Steph”), has become one of basketball’s greatest shooters. Following in his father’s footsteps, Steph has surpassed Dell’s achievements, winning multiple NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors.
Dell’s second son, Seth Curry, also made it to the NBA as a talented shooter. The Curry brothers occasionally face each other as opponents, creating unique moments for the basketball-loving family.
Dell and Sonya’s daughter, Sydel, chose a different path but remained connected to basketball, playing volleyball in college and later marrying NBA player Damion Lee.
Personal Interests and Activities
After retiring as the Charlotte Hornets’ all-time leader in points with 9,839, Dell remained connected to the franchise. He became a television analyst for Hornets broadcasts, keeping his basketball expertise in the game.
Dell has embraced Charlotte as his hometown since arriving there in 1988. He once stated, “Charlotte is home”, reflecting his deep connection to the city.
Golf has become one of Dell’s favorite activities in retirement. He frequently participates in celebrity golf tournaments and charity events, showcasing his competitive spirit beyond basketball.
Dell has also dedicated significant time to community service. Through the Dell Curry Foundation, he supports youth development programs throughout the Charlotte area.
Legacy and Impact
Dell Curry’s contributions to the Charlotte Hornets organization extend far beyond his impressive scoring statistics. His ongoing presence in Charlotte has shaped both the franchise and the community in lasting ways.
Influence on the Hornets and the NBA
Dell Curry isn’t just a footnote in Hornets history—he’s a cornerstone figure who helped establish the expansion franchise’s identity. As an original member of the Charlotte franchise, Curry became one of the all-time leading scorers in team history.
His shooting touch revolutionized the sixth-man role in the NBA, proving that impact players didn’t need to start games to change them. Curry’s influence lives on through the modern NBA’s emphasis on three-point shooting.
Even after retirement, he maintained his connection to the organization as a color commentator for Hornets broadcasts, providing insights that only a veteran player could offer.
In 2019, Curry officially expanded his role with the organization, becoming a Hornets Ambassador and Special Projects Advisor—cementing his legacy with the team he helped build.
Charitable Endeavors
Curry’s impact extends far beyond the hardwood. He was—and continues to be—a beloved figure in the Charlotte community, known particularly for his philanthropic efforts.
The Dell Curry Foundation, established during his playing days, focuses on youth development programs in Charlotte. His annual celebrity golf classic has raised millions for local children’s charities over the years.
He’s been especially committed to educational initiatives, providing scholarships and mentoring opportunities for underprivileged youth in the Charlotte area.
Curry’s dedication to community service earned him the NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award, recognizing his exceptional humanitarian efforts. His charitable work has created a blueprint for professional athletes looking to make meaningful community impacts.
Statistical Overview
Dell Curry established himself as one of the premier shooters in Hornets history. His consistent scoring ability and efficient shooting made him a valuable asset during his time in Charlotte.
Career Statistics
Dell Curry averaged 11.7 points per game throughout his NBA career. The 6-4, 190-pound guard also contributed 2.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists per contest while wearing No. 30 for the Hornets.
His shooting efficiency stands out in his statistical profile. Curry maintained an impressive 45.7% field goal percentage during his time in the league.
Curry played a total of 1,083 regular-season games across his 16-season NBA career, demonstrating remarkable durability and longevity.
| Stat Category | Career Average |
|---|---|
| Points | 11.7 PPG |
| Rebounds | 2.4 RPG |
| Assists | 1.8 APG |
| FG% | 45.7% |
Significant Milestones
Curry’s most notable achievement came in 1993-94 when he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award with the Charlotte Hornets. This recognition highlighted his effectiveness coming off the bench as a scoring specialist.
His tenure with Charlotte established him as one of the franchise’s most reliable performers. Curry ranks among the Hornets’ all-time leaders in games played and three-pointers made.
The Virginia native’s shooting touch remained consistent throughout his career. His ability to space the floor and provide instant offense made him valuable even in his later seasons.
Curry’s professional success also set the stage for his son Stephen’s future NBA career, creating one of basketball’s most accomplished father-son legacies.
Recognition and Awards
Dell Curry earned significant recognition during his time with the Charlotte Hornets, establishing himself as one of the franchise’s most impactful players. His deadly three-point shooting and consistent bench production brought him both individual accolades and lasting respect in NBA circles.
Accolades During NBA Career
Dell Curry’s crowning achievement came in 1994 when he captured the Sixth Man of the Year Award while playing for the Charlotte Hornets. This prestigious honor recognized his exceptional contribution coming off the bench, where he averaged 11.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.
Curry’s shooting prowess earned him respect throughout the league. While he never received All-Star recognition, his consistency and professionalism made him a beloved figure in Charlotte basketball.
His statistical achievements with the Hornets remain impressive decades later:
| Season | PPG | RPG | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993-94 | 11.7 | 2.4 | 40.2% |
| 1994-95 | 13.6 | 2.7 | 42.6% |
| 1995-96 | 14.8 | 2.8 | 40.3% |
Post-Retirement Honors
Following his playing career, Curry received continued recognition for his contributions to basketball. In 2016, he was awarded the Bobby Jones Award at the Athletes in Action All Star Breakfast. This award honored his character and integrity both on and off the court.
The Charlotte Hornets organization has continued to embrace Curry as a franchise legend. He served as a television analyst for the team, further cementing his legacy within the organization.
Curry’s post-retirement prestige has also grown due to his sons’ NBA success. As the father of Stephen and Seth Curry, Dell’s basketball legacy extends beyond his own playing achievements, though his personal accomplishments remain significant in Hornets history.