Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry's father, Dell Curry, has revealed he played a crucial role in preventing the Minnesota Timberwolves from selecting his son in the 2009 NBA draft.
“During the draft, I got a call from Minnesota and they asked if they could take Steph,” Dell Curry said. “I told them, ‘Please don’t. Please don’t.’”
On the other end of the line was former Timberwolves assistant coach Jay Bilas. “They said, ‘OK, we’re not going to do it,’” Dell continued. “They stuck to their word. Then Minnesota ended up taking two point guards back-to-back.”
The Timberwolves, who held the fifth and sixth overall picks in the 2009 draft, ultimately selected point guards Ricky Rubio and Jonny Flynn, passing up the opportunity to add the future two-time NBA MVP to their roster.
Dell Curry's call-up to the Timberwolves proved pivotal, as the Warriors were able to select Stephen with the seventh overall pick, setting the stage for one of the most remarkable careers in NBA history.
“I’m glad they listened to me,” Dell said with a laugh. “I’m sure they probably regret it now, but at the time, I just didn’t want Steph to go to Minnesota. I knew the Warriors were the perfect fit for him.”
The Warriors' selection of Stephen Curry paid off for the franchise, as he led them to three NBA championships and five Finals appearances, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation.
“Steph has exceeded all my expectations,” Dell said. “I knew he was talented, but the way he’s transformed the game and the success he’s had, it’s truly incredible. I’m so proud of him and grateful he landed in the right place.”
The Timberwolves' decision to pass on Curry has become one of the most infamous draft blunders in NBA history, with the team missing out on an opportunity to acquire a generational talent who would redefine the game.
“I’m sure Minnesota wondered what could have been,” Dell said. “But I’m just glad Steph ended up with the Warriors. It’s been an incredible journey, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Dell Curry's move on draft night not only changed the course of his son's career, but also had a profound impact on the landscape of the NBA as a whole. The Warriors dynasty led by Curry became one of the most iconic and influential in league history, a testament to the power of being in the right place at the right time.
