Davidson won’t retire Stephen Curry’s number

Stephen Curry is taking the NBA by storm this year, but Davidson won’t retire his number until he graduates.

Davidson had a special player in Stephen Curry. He was a one-of-a-kind player for the Wildcats who have a Curry locker room, but don’t recognize the Golden State Warriors player from the stadium’s rafters. There’s good reason for it. Curry left Davidson early for the NBA and hasn’t graduated yet. They only retire numbers of players who finished their Davidson education whether in four years or over time.

Curry told ESPN.com that it’s a priority of his to finish his Davidson education.

"“I knew what I signed up for when I went to Davidson,” Curry said. “I made a promise to coach [Bob] McKillop and my family that when I left school back in ’09 that that would be accomplished — and it will be soon. Hopefully sooner than later.”"

Curry put Davidson on the Division I basketball landscape more than it ever was previously. When people hear the institution’s name, they naturally associate it with Curry. Yet, their policy of only retiring athletes who finish their degrees shows their commitment to education. After all, those who play at any Division I, II, or III institutions despite what many associate at many Division I schools.

At some point athletes’ careers will end rather collegiality or after a professional career. Earning a degree will help them succeed in the real word. Curry made a wise decision to forego any more time at Davidson and go professionally. He was ready and is arguably the best NBA player this season. Yet, he also understands the importance of education and will look to finish his degree.

Until then, you want see a Curry jersey hang from the rafters.