NBA Superstar Steph Curry Inspires Confidence Through Children's Book
It's safe to say that NBA superstar Steph Curry doesn't lack confidence on the court, but now he's working to help others find their inner confidence.
His new children's book, "I am Extraordinary," tells the story of a girl named Zoe. She feels self-conscious about wearing hearing aids, but with the help of friends, she learns the power of being different and joins her school's soccer team.
"Coming off of the first book, 'I Have a Superpower,' we are always obviously trying to create amazing storytelling for kids that can inspire confidence and embracing how unique they are," Curry said about his inspiration for "I am Extraordinary."
Curry himself makes an appearance in his second children's book after the character Zoe makes her breakthrough on the soccer field.
"Wow Zoey!" Curry's illustrated version says in the book. "What an inspirational story. There will always be obstacles in life. But those obstacles aren't there to stop you. They're to challenge you. It's up to you to find the courage and strength to overcome them. So, what makes you extraordinary?"
The book discusses being underrated, which Curry said is a message he understands.
"Growing up playing basketball, I didn't fit the traditional mold. People saw me as a late bloomer, but what really mattered was building confidence in myself, developing a strong work ethic, and not letting failure hold me back," he shared.
Stephen and Ayesha Curry introduced the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation in Oakland back in 2019, with a key focus on promoting literacy. The foundation's mission revolves around three essential pillars for a healthy childhood: nutrition, literacy, and physical activity, aiming to support children in various settings such as schools, homes, and communities.
Recent standardized test results from 2021 and 2022 revealed that only 36% of third-grade students in Oakland, California were reading at their grade level.
"Life has a way of guiding you to where you belong," Curry expressed. "Through strategic investments and by providing children with culturally relevant books and tutoring tailored to their age, we can make a difference."
The foundation has already allocated close to $6 million towards enhancing literacy programs in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area.
Looking ahead, the father of three is committed to leveraging his platform for positive change and has not dismissed the idea of a potential future in politics.
"I am determined to use my influence for good in any way possible. Whether it's through politics or other means, I want to create meaningful change."
