On March 19, 2024, Dell Curry will have his No. 30 jersey retired by the Charlotte Hornets, marking a significant milestone in his storied career. His sons, Steph and Seth Curry, are set to attend the ceremony following their game against the Boston Celtics on March 18. This occasion is not just a celebration of Dell’s contributions on the court but also a recognition of his lasting impact on the Hornets franchise.
A Dream Come True for Dell Curry
Dell Curry expressed his gratitude for the honor, describing it as a “dream come true” during an interview with ESPN. He played with the Hornets for ten seasons and has also served as a television announcer for over a decade. Now, he joins Bobby Phills as the only players in Hornets history to have their jerseys retired in the Spectrum Center.
As Steph Curry reflected on the upcoming event, he emphasized the significance of his father’s legacy. “The Curry name, and especially in Charlotte, we call him ‘The Originator’ because when the expansion draft happened in 1988, our family moved up there and set up shop. He was part of the original Hornets team,” Steph said. “Special, special, special.”
Legacy and Impact on the Franchise
The honor is especially meaningful for Dell, who remains a respected figure within the basketball community. “I never imagined it would happen,” he told the Associated Press. “It means so much to me. The game gave me so much, the fans gave me so much, and I want to stay involved just to give back what I can.”
In his playing days, Dell made a significant mark on the Hornets’ record books. He holds several franchise records, including most games played (701) and most 2-point field goals (3,022). His accolades also include winning the 1993-94 Sixth Man of the Year award. Current Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised Dell’s impact on the franchise, emphasizing the importance of recognizing players who have made significant contributions, even if they are not Hall of Famers.
Kerr, who faced Dell during his playing career, acknowledged the competitive spirit the Hornets brought to the league. “They were a really good team, and you knew who you were going against when you played the Hornets, and Dell was a huge part of that,” he said.
As Dell prepares for the ceremony, he will also continue his role as an announcer, where he is known for his calm demeanor alongside the more animated Eric Collins. In a touching moment shared with The Athletic, Dell recalled a surprise video announcement of his jersey retirement that brought him to tears, showcasing the depth of emotion surrounding this honor.
Hornets co-chairmen Rick Schnall and Gabe Plotkin expressed their appreciation for Dell’s contributions, stating, “He exemplifies what it means to be a Hornet through his professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to excellence.”
As the ceremony approaches, both Steph and Seth have confirmed their plans to attend, ensuring that the family legacy continues to shine brightly in Charlotte. “Oh for sure, for sure,” Steph said when asked about their attendance at the festivities.
This upcoming jersey retirement not only honors Dell Curry’s individual achievements but also reinforces the Curry family’s deep connection to the Charlotte Hornets and the community they helped build.
