Stephen Curry, the superstar who has led the Golden State Warriors to four NBA championships, just might be the best shooter in pro basketball history. His style of play has revolutionized the game, spawning a generation of players who shoot long three-point shots with a super quick release. His work ethic and dedication to the game are unrivaled, even as he nears the end of a first-ballot, Hall of Fame career. Steph Curry is a joy to watch play, and he has carried himself with class and grace off the court, a faithful husband and father and a person of Christian faith.
This is why it is admittedly difficult and dispiriting for this longtime NBA fan to write of my profound disappointment over Curry’s recent foray into presidential politics. He appeared in an endorsement video at last month’s Democratic National Convention, urging his fans to register and vote for Vice President Kamala Harris, based on her ability, in his words, to “bring unity.”
In one sense, Curry’s engagement in the political process should not be considered abnormal. Athletes have endorsed politicians in every election in the modern era. Some from the world of sports, like Jack Kemp, Steve Largent, Bill Bradley, J.C. Watts, Tommy Tuberville, and Heath Shuler, have even run for office. Republicans have also boasted endorsements from athletes in this cycle, including former stars Darryl Strawberry, Lawrence Taylor, Mariano Rivera, Jack Nicklaus, and John Daly.
It’s less common, however, for athletes in the prime of their playing career to endorse and risk alienating fans, but it’s not unprecedented. NBA star LeBron James has frequently endorsed the Democratic ticket. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has been outspoken in supporting former President Donald Trump. His teammate Patrick Mahomes has caught some flak for seemingly supportive comments his wife made about Trump’s policy ideas.
Click Here to Read More (Originally Published at World Magazine)
