Last updated on: November 21, 2025
Dell Curry has become synonymous with being the father of the NBA megastar Stephen Curry, but well before Stephen was to become an iconic figure himself, Dell had established a strong name in basketball. He was among the early great shooters in the NBA and motivated both of his sons to follow the sport. His story is full of hard work, discipline, and a deep love for the game.
Quick Facts About Dell Curry
| Full Name | Wardell Stephen “Dell” Curry Sr. |
| Birthdate | June 25, 1964 |
| Age
Height |
61 years and 5 months old
1.96 m |
| Occupation | Former NBA Player, Charlotte Hornets Commentator |
| Husband/Wife | Sonya Curry (1988–2021, divorced) |
| Education | Virginia Tech |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Siblings | Not known |
| Children | Stephen Curry (son), Seth Curry (son), Sydel Curry (daughter) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $9 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Childhood
Wardell Stephen Curry Sr., famously known as Dell Curry, was born in Harrisonburg, Virginia on June 25, 1964. He was raised in the small town of Grottoes, where he developed a love for sports early in his childhood years. Dell played both basketball and baseball. He was so good at baseball that the Texas Rangers drafted him, but Dell chose basketball because he felt more connected to the court.
Dell was a high school star at Fort Defiance, earning one of the highest honors for prep players by being named a McDonald’s All-American in 1982. His talent caught the attention of colleges around the country in no time.
College Basketball at Virginia Tech
Dell decided to join Virginia Tech, where he played for four years. He was a starter from his first season. Dell was known for his smooth jump shot and strong defense. His ability to score made him one of the most important players on the team. His growth as an athlete and a leader happened while at Virginia Tech.
NBA Career and Achievements
Dell Curry was drafted into the NBA in 1986 by the Utah Jazz as the 15th overall pick, which marked the beginning of his long, successful career. He has had the opportunity to play in the NBA with numerous teams, including:
Utah Jazz
Cleveland Cavaliers
Milwaukee Bucks
Toronto Raptors
But Dell is best remembered for his time with the Charlotte Hornets. In 10 seasons with the team, Dell became one of their most trusted shooters. At the time of his retirement, he held two major records for the Hornets:
Most career points: 9,839
Most three-pointers made: 929
Dell was known for coming off the bench and providing quick scoring; because of this, he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1994. His calm presence, great shooting, and steady performance made him a fan favorite.
Family and Personal Life
Dell Curry married Sonya Curry in 1988; she would later start a school and become recognized for her outstanding role in education and community work. Together, they had three talented children:
Stephen Curry – NBA superstar
Seth Curry – Professional NBA player
Sydel Curry – Elon University former volleyball player
Dell taught Stephen and Seth how to shoot, how to practice, and how to stay humble. He spent hours in the gym with them, helping them shape their skills. Today, people view Stephen as the greatest shooter ever, and Seth is also among the best shooters in the league. According to many, the shooting talent of the two brothers comes from Dell.
Life After Basketball
After retiring in 2002, Dell stuck close to the sport, becoming a color commentator for the Charlotte Hornets. His insights are enjoyed by fans because he understands the game in depth and explains it in simple terms.
Dell also works in the community through the Dell Curry Foundation, which focuses on helping children with education and sports programs.
READ ALSO: Stephen Curry Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Dell Curry’s impact goes well beyond his own NBA career. Scoring and leading, he changed the Charlotte Hornets. Even more, he shaped the future of basketball through his sons. Stephen and Seth both attribute the drive for discipline, practice, and passion to their father. Dell Curry is more than just a former NBA player; he’s a mentor, a father, and one of the major figures in one of the most famous families in basketball.
