n a recent announcement, the NBA and the Professional Basketball Writers Association declared that Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has been honored with the 2023 J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award. This accolade serves as a recognition of Curry’s unwavering commitment to community service, specifically acknowledging his efforts in advancing youth literacy, promoting fitness and nutrition, and his dedication to fostering gender equality in sports, as outlined in an official news release.
Through the Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, numerous children in Oakland, California, have received support, with initiatives including the construction of playgrounds, the promotion of literacy, and the distribution of meals and fresh fruit. During the past summer, the foundation organized a special event, inviting over 1,000 youngsters from various community organizations to attend an Oakland Athletics game, with the aim of encouraging physical activity, fitness, and a love for reading. Furthermore, the organization hosted more than 500 Oakland families during the 10th annual Christmas with the Currys event in December. In addition to these efforts, the foundation has been providing weekly lunches throughout the city and recently unveiled a new schoolyard at Global Family Elementary.
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Curry has consistently leveraged his influential position to advocate for equality in sports. This advocacy was evident when he visited the White House to commemorate the Warriors’ 2022 championship victory, during which he emphasized the significance of equal opportunities in the world of sports. He has continued to champion this cause both as an individual and through his collaborative efforts with corporate partners.
One noteworthy initiative in this regard is the Underrated Tour, a collaboration between Curry and Under Armour, which serves as a platform for talented high school golfers from underprivileged communities to showcase their skills and potential.
Throughout the NBA season, Curry actively engages with fans and community organizations. In a heartwarming gesture, he visited the Wichita West girls’ basketball team in Oklahoma City during March. Despite facing the adversity of having to forfeit their season due to a lack of players, these determined young athletes continued to practice diligently. Curry’s visit aimed to draw attention to their unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of challenges.
The process of selecting the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award winner involved NBA clubs nominating players, with a committee of PBWA members—comprising writers and editors who regularly cover the league—choosing four finalists. Ultimately, the winner was determined by active PBWA members, recognizing Curry’s outstanding contributions to the community and his dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the basketball court.