

Stephen Curry’s NCAA power move: Trailblazer or Rule-bender as becoming Davidson College’s assistant general manager
Stephen Curry, one of the most decorated players in NBA history, is making waves off the court with an unprecedented career move. The Golden State Warriors’ superstar has accepted a role as Assistant General Manager for Basketball at Davidson College, his alma mater. This makes him the first active player in a major U.S. professional sport to take on an administrative role with an NCAA team.
Curry’s decision reflects his unwavering commitment to giving back to the school that helped launch his basketball career. But what does this role entail? How will Curry balance his responsibilities in the NBA and at Davidson? And what impact will his presence have on the college’s basketball programs?
Let’s dive into this groundbreaking development and what it means for Curry, Davidson College, and the broader sports world.
Stephen Curry’s Legacy at Davidson College
Before he became a four-time NBA champion, two-time MVP, and the greatest shooter in basketball history, Stephen Curry was a college sensation at Davidson.
- From 2006 to 2009, Curry played three seasons at Davidson College, a small private school in North Carolina.
- He led the Davidson Wildcats to an incredible Elite Eight run in the 2008 NCAA Tournament, putting himself and the school on the national map.
- Despite his relatively small frame and being overlooked by major programs, Curry dominated college basketball, breaking multiple records.
- He left Davidson as the school’s all-time leading scorer with 2,635 career points and remains one of the greatest players to ever wear a Wildcats jersey.
Though Curry left for the NBA in 2009, he never forgot his roots. In 2022, he returned to Davidson to officially graduate with a degree in sociology and had his jersey retired by the school. Now, in 2025, he’s taking his connection with the college to an entirely new level.
What Does an Assistant General Manager Do?
As Assistant General Manager for Basketball, Curry will work alongside Davidson’s General Manager Austin Buntz to support both the men’s and women’s basketball programs.
Key Responsibilities of Curry’s Role:
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Mentorship & Player Development:
- Provide guidance and mentoring to student-athletes.
- Share insights from his NBA journey to help develop young talent.
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Strategic Planning:
- Assist in long-term team-building strategies for Davidson’s basketball programs.
- Help shape the culture and philosophy of the Wildcats.
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Resource Allocation & Fundraising:
- Work on securing funding and sponsorships to improve basketball facilities.
- Aid in allocating resources to ensure the teams have everything they need to succeed.
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Recruiting & Scouting:
- Use his NBA experience and network to help identify top high school prospects.
- Attract high-caliber student athletes to Davidson.
Though he won’t be coaching directly, Curry’s presence will undoubtedly elevate Davidson’s basketball reputation and attract attention from prospective players, fans, and sponsors.
Balancing the NBA and NCAA: How Will Curry Manage?
Curry is still at the top of his game in the NBA, so how will he juggle his new responsibilities at Davidson while playing for the Warriors?
How Curry Plans to Balance Both Roles:
- Virtual Involvement: With the advancements in technology, Curry can stay involved remotely, attending meetings and mentoring players via video calls.
- Offseason Engagement: The NBA offseason provides an opportunity for him to spend more time on campus, working directly with players and staff.
- Strong Support Staff: Curry will work with Austin Buntz and other administrators to ensure his responsibilities are managed effectively.
Unlike a full-time coaching role, the Assistant GM position allows Curry more flexibility, making it feasible for him to contribute to Davidson without interfering with his NBA career.
Curry’s Eight-Figure Fund for Davidson Basketball
One of the most impactful aspects of Curry’s return to Davidson is his financial commitment to the program.
The Eight-Figure Fund:
Alongside his wife, Ayesha Curry, and Davidson supporters Don, Matt, and Erica Berman, Curry is spearheading an eight-figure fund to elevate the men’s and women’s basketball teams.
How the Fund Will Be Used:
✔ Facility Upgrades: Renovating and improving training centers, locker rooms, and courts.
✔ Scholarships: offering financial aid to attract top student-athletes.
✔ Coaching & Development: Hiring top-tier coaching talent to enhance player growth.
✔ Program Expansion: Strengthening recruiting efforts and building Davidson’s basketball presence nationwide.
Curry’s generosity ensures that Davidson College will remain competitive in Division I basketball for years to come.
Impact on Davidson College Basketball
Curry’s involvement will have far-reaching effects on Davidson’s basketball programs.
Immediate Benefits:
✔ Increased National Exposure: More media attention on Davidson, bringing in top recruits and sponsors.
✔ Stronger Recruiting Power: High school prospects will see Davidson as an elite destination.
✔ Elevated Coaching & Development: Players will benefit from NBA-level insights and strategies.
Long-Term Effects:
✔ Program Prestige: Davidson could become a powerhouse mid-major program like Gonzaga or Butler.
✔ Increased Fan Engagement: With Curry’s name attached, Davidson games could see higher attendance and viewership.
✔ Stronger NBA Pipeline: More Davidson players may get opportunities at the professional level.
Davidson’s basketball future looks brighter than ever with Curry’s leadership and financial backing.
How the Basketball World Reacted
Curry’s move to Davidson has stunned and excited fans, analysts, and fellow players.
What the Basketball Community is Saying:
- NBA Players: Many players praised Curry’s commitment to giving back and mentoring young athletes.
- Davidson Alumni & Fans: Wildcats supporters celebrated the news, seeing this as a game-changing moment for their school.
- Sports Analysts: Experts believe Curry’s involvement could redefine the relationship between active pros and college programs.
This move could set a precedent, inspiring other active athletes to take on administrative roles in collegiate sports.
Curry’s Role Compared to Other NBA Legends
Few NBA stars have taken on administrative roles while still playing professionally.
✔ Michael Jordan became part owner of the Washington Wizards in 2000 but later returned to playing.
✔ LeBron James has been involved in team-building efforts but not in an official NCAA role.
✔ Shaquille O’Neal served as an NBA team executive post-retirement.
Curry’s role at Davidson is unprecedented, making him a true trailblazer in sports administration.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Curry & Davidson?
With Curry’s on-court brilliance and off-court leadership, Davidson College is entering a golden era for its basketball program.
This historic move raises many questions:
- Will other active NBA players follow Curry’s lead?
- Could Curry eventually transition into full-time sports management after retiring?
- Will Davidson rise to national prominence with his guidance?
One thing is certain: Stephen Curry’s legacy at Davidson isn’t just about the past—it’s about the future.
His involvement as Assistant GM ensures that the Wildcats will continue to thrive, and the basketball world will be watching every step of the way.
Conclusion: The Legacy of a True Leader
Stephen Curry has proven time and again that he’s more than just a basketball player—he’s a visionary leader, mentor, and game-changer.
By returning to Davidson in a leadership role, Curry is doing more than giving back; he’s shaping the next generation of athletes and redefining what’s possible in sports.
This isn’t just another chapter in Curry’s career. It’s a new era for Davidson College basketball.