NBA champion and reigning Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry visited the country for just a day as part of the Under Armour Asian Tour dubbed “UA RoadShow,” but his less than 24-hour trip left lasting memories for all basketball-loving Filipinos!
I was fortunate to have had a close encounter with Stephen as I hosted the press conference at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati!
Just about every mediaman in Manila and also a few foreign members of the press were present at the affair to get their first glimpse of the gentleman who dominated the previous NBA season.
“It doesn’t matter how tall you are or how short you are, what matters is your heart. It’s the will to be successful. Obviously, the guys who aren’t blessed with physical stature like myself have to work a little bit harder so we fight an uphill battle in that sense. There are different ways to impact a game. It’s about being well-rounded in what you do on the court in ball-handing, shooting, and other things,” was one of the things that Curry said that really struck home.
Curry was also very animated talking about his involvement in the design of his signature shoes Curry I and Curry II.
“The innovation and technology we put into both shoes make a great product. You’ll find comfort. The shoes are sturdy and you’ll perform well on the court. Where I like to give the most input are in the colors and the storytelling behind each shoe. A little of my personality comes out in each one,” Curry stated.
He then proceeded to the MOA Arena for a full-blown program that had him interact with kids and fans inside the sold-out stadium!
What stood out for me though is that this young man was a stand-up guy, one who could be a real role model for kids.
I was told by his security detail that they informed Stephen they were planning to deviate from their original route, which would take him through the ground floor lobby and up to the second floor lobby before arriving at the function room set up for the presscon, and making him now pass through the kitchen area to avoid the hundreds of fans waiting for him.
He asked why, and they said it would be more convenient for him, without having to mingle with the crowd, stop for pictures, and sign some autographs.
Without batting an eyelash, he nixed the idea and said, “Let’s pass the original route,” knowing just how important his fans were, and wanting to acknowledge their support.
Now, that’s a superstar who has his feet firmly planted on the ground!
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