Ahead of the recent debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, NBA star Stephen Curry shared insights into his decision to publicly endorse Harris for president, despite potential backlash from some fans. In an interview with Bloomberg Originals’ Emily Chang, Curry addressed the challenges athletes face when taking political stands, referencing Michael Jordan’s famous comment, “Republicans buy shoes, too.”
Curry explained, “First, it was the conviction of what you believe. Being active and publicly endorsing her, being a part of the DNC back in 2020 as well, is important to me. I approach everything with decency and humanity. It’s not about casting flames at the other side; it’s about what I believe in. Whether you agree with me or not, fostering positive conversations is essential.”
His endorsement contrasts sharply with Jordan’s historically cautious stance on politics. Jordan famously opted not to endorse Democratic candidate Harvey Gantt in the 1990s, which led to his controversial remark about Republicans and sneaker sales. In the docuseries “The Last Dance,” Jordan later clarified that his comment was made in jest.
Curry’s decision comes amid the complexities that surround public figures in sports and entertainment when it comes to political discourse. As he noted, “I hate the inherent backlash you get if you just say anything. People often don’t hear what you say; they react to the fact that you have a differing opinion.” He emphasized the importance of engaging in respectful dialogue, even amid differing beliefs.
Curry, who has significant brand partnerships—including his Curry Brand with Under Armour—has managed to navigate the intersection of sports and politics while continuing to build his brand. He recently debuted his Curry 12 signature sneaker and opened a new store in Chengdu, China.
Ultimately, Curry’s willingness to engage in political discussions reflects a broader trend among athletes advocating for causes they believe in, seeking to foster intelligent conversations and promote understanding, even when facing potential backlash.
