Copyright Essentially Sports
Stephen Curry’s path to becoming an NBA legend almost ended before it truly began, with a series of ankle injuries that pushed him to the brink of walking away from basketball entirely. In a revealing conversation, the Golden State Warriors star shared how a pivotal moment with his wife, Ayesha, during a dark period of rehabilitation changed everything. The struggle reached its peak in the summer of 2012. Curry was recovering from his second ankle surgery, a procedure that followed a season where he managed to play only 26 games. The constant physical setbacks created a deep mental challenge for the typically optimistic athlete. It was in this vulnerable state that Ayesha Curry offered a simple yet powerful piece of advice. Seeing her husband grapple with self-doubt, she told him, “Don’t forget who you are.” Curry recalled that this single line helped him refocus on his mission. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad He described sitting on a makeshift couch in his Charlotte home, overwhelmed by doubt during the grueling rehab process. The uncertainty of not knowing if his body would ever cooperate tested his spirit in a way he had never experienced. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad He was chasing greatness but felt he could not control his own health. Her words became an anchor, pulling him through the darkest days of his recovery. Read Top Stories First From EssentiallySports Click here and check box next to EssentiallySports The turnaround was remarkable. Almost three years after that low point, Stephen Curry was back on the court and leading the Golden State Warriors to their first NBA championship in 2015. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad That title was the beginning of a dynasty that would yield four more finals appearances and two additional championships. The moment of despair in his basement, countered by his wife’s timely intervention, ultimately set the stage for one of the most celebrated careers in basketball history. Ex-NBA Star raises frenzy over Steph Curry’s appearance Stephen Curry’s upcoming appearance on LeBron James’ basketball podcast has generated excitement among NBA fans, but one former player is looking beyond the surface of this collaboration between two legends. The decision has prompted questions about what business considerations might be happening behind the scenes. Former Milwaukee Bucks star Michael Redd used his social media account to share his thoughts on Curry joining James on the “Mind the Game” podcast. “This is amazing, for fans, and a big win for LJ/Uninterrupted, so it’s also curious,” Redd wrote. He specifically mentioned the production companies behind both players, noting, “There is little that happens amongst icons without backroom business/agreements.” Redd questioned whether Curry’s appearance represented a simple exchange between friends or something more strategic. “Is LJ going to return the favor and jump on an SC/Unanimous production? Are they going to co-produce something? Is there a bigger play in place?” he wondered. The former NBA player also pointed to the significant financial value involved, suggesting Curry’s podcast appearance could generate “up to seven figures in revenue” through distribution deals and advertising. The “Mind the Game” podcast focuses on analytical basketball discussion, featuring tactics, plays, and philosophical approaches to the sport. Curry’s participation marks a rare podcast appearance for the Golden State Warriors star, who typically maintains a more reserved media presence. Both players recently won gold medals together, representing Team USA at the Paris Olympics, adding to their long history as both rivals and collaborators.
