Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered!

Volume One: I Came, I Saw, I Conquered! Chapter Six: Maybe You Should Go to Davidson Instead North Carolina, Charlotte.

"Did VT reject me too?" He picked up the large glass of water on the table, tipped his head back, and drained it. Then he lowered his head and slowly made his way upstairs.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams? In his eyes, it should have been a given that Curry would get a full scholarship and join the Hokies. But Seth Greenberg had wanted Stephen to redshirt for a year. He might as well send his son to one of those obscure teams instead.

Click!

This was North Carolina's largest city and the United States' second-largest banking center. It had a mild, humid climate and four distinct seasons, earning it the nickname "The Queen City."

Curry didn't know the answer.

Click!

A jumble of thoughts swirled through Curry's mind. After being rejected by one top school after another, even someone as tough as he was had begun to doubt himself a little.

Maybe I should just go to Davidson. Coach McKillop says I'm too skinny, too, but at least he's willing to give me a chance to play.

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Seth Greenberg put down his phone and shrugged. He couldn't see any potential in that baby-faced kid beyond his accurate shooting.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

Dell rarely reacted so strongly. He was usually even-tempered.

Click!

But Dell Curry, the owner of one of those houses, was in a foul mood.

Basketball was his dream and his passion. He'd been surrounded by the game since birth and was willing to give everything for it. But now, his dream seemed to be dying halfway through. Even Coach K didn't think he could play in the NCAA. Could he really make it to the NBA someday?

The atmosphere grew heavy.

"Seth, are you saying you can't offer Stephen a full scholarship?" Holding his phone, Dell asked in disbelief.

How many times had he been rejected? North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech...

Dell rarely reacted so strongly. He was usually even-tempered.

"The Hokies are only willing to offer you an academic scholarship, and you'd have to redshirt for a year. I turned them down."

Of course he could afford his son's college tuition. But a full scholarship wasn't just financial aid; it also represented a player's standing on the team. Only core players received full scholarships. Curry aspired to play in the NBA, and a full scholarship could guarantee him playing time and a place on the team. It was crucial to his future.

North Carolina, Charlotte.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

Basketball was his dream and his passion. He'd been surrounded by the game since birth and was willing to give everything for it. But now, his dream seemed to be dying halfway through. Even Coach K didn't think he could play in the NCAA. Could he really make it to the NBA someday?

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

He couldn't help thinking back to the summer after his freshman year of high school. Under his father's guidance, Curry had spent two whole months changing his shooting form. It had been the most painful and unforgettable summer of his life.

The light vanished from Curry's eyes. He bent down to pick up the basketball and wiped the sweat from his forehead with his already soaked collar. Then he managed a smile and said, "Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

He couldn't help thinking back to the summer after his freshman year of high school. Under his father's guidance, Curry had spent two whole months changing his shooting form. It had been the most painful and unforgettable summer of his life.

Of course Dell could afford his son's college tuition. But a full scholarship wasn't just financial aid; it also represented a player's standing on the team. Only core players received full scholarships. Curry aspired to play in the NBA, and a full scholarship could guarantee him playing time and a place on the team. It was crucial to his future.

A redshirt player was an athlete who delayed or paused participation in NCAA games in order to extend his eligibility. Many freshmen struggled to compete with veteran players and stars on their teams, so they chose to redshirt and spend a year focusing on training before competing for playing time as sophomores.

Seth Greenberg put down his phone and shrugged. He couldn't see any potential in that baby-faced kid beyond his accurate shooting.

Sonya and Dell exchanged a look, unsure what to say.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Dell rarely reacted so strongly. He was usually even-tempered.

But Dell Curry, the owner of one of those houses, was in a foul mood.

In his eyes, it should have been a given that Curry would get a full scholarship and join the Hokies. But Seth Greenberg had wanted Stephen to redshirt for a year. He might as well send his son to one of those obscure teams instead.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

Sonya and Dell exchanged a look, unsure what to say.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

Sonya said:

The light vanished from Curry's eyes. He bent down to pick up the basketball and wiped the sweat from his forehead with his already soaked collar. Then he managed a smile and said:

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Sonya and Dell sat on the sofa and looked at each other. Both of them seemed lost.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

Dell rarely reacted so strongly. He was usually even-tempered.

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

Dell Curry slammed his phone onto the sofa. It hit the leather cushion, bounced high into the air, and landed on the floor without a scratch. Nokia really lived up to its reputation.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

Davidson College, Virginia Commonwealth University, High Point University, and the College of William & Mary had all expressed interest in Stephen. How could he let his son waste a year on the bench?

"I'm not hungry. Go ahead and eat without me, Mom."

The atmosphere grew heavy.

Maybe I should just go to Davidson. Coach McKillop says I'm too skinny, too, but at least he's willing to give me a chance to play.

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

"This is fine. If VT won't give Stephen a full scholarship, we'll look at other schools. There's still UCLA, Michigan State..."

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

Sonya had heard the phone hit the floor while she was cooking. She came out of the kitchen and saw Dell sitting dejectedly on the sofa. "What's wrong?" she asked.

He picked up the large glass of water on the table, tipped his head back, and drained it. Then he lowered his head and slowly made his way upstairs.

Davidson College, Virginia Commonwealth University, High Point University, and the College of William & Mary had all expressed interest in Stephen. How could he let his son waste a year on the bench?

"They're talking nonsense! They can't see Stephen's drive or his determination! He's performed better than anyone at every tryout. He's the best shooter and ball handler, but those people stubbornly insist he's too frail, that one hit will knock him apart. But we know that isn't true. Stephen's a tough kid!" Sonya's emotions ran high, and her voice grew louder and louder.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

"Hey Seth, are you saying you can't offer Stephen a full scholarship?" Holding his phone, Dell asked in disbelief.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

"Dell, don't get worked up. I think highly of Stephen too, but he came to try out a little late. We've already finished recruiting Zabian and Harmon, and we only have one full scholarship left, which we need to use to strengthen our center position. I just can't give it to Stephen," Seth Greenberg said calmly.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

Sonya and Dell sat on the sofa and looked at each other. Both of them seemed lost.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Basketball was his dream and his passion. He'd been surrounded by the game since birth and was willing to give everything for it. But now, his dream seemed to be dying halfway through. Even Coach K didn't think he could play in the NCAA. Could he really make it to the NBA someday?

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

In his eyes, it should have been a given that Curry would get a full scholarship and join the Hokies. But Seth Greenberg had wanted Stephen to redshirt for a year. He might as well send his son to one of those obscure teams instead.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Seth Greenberg didn't care much about Curry. He only had a little interest in him and didn't believe a player with such a frail build could make it in the NCAA. Even if they didn't recruit him, the Hokies wouldn't lose anything.

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Curry saw their familiar expressions and had a bad feeling.

NCAA powerhouses and obscure teams had vastly different levels of exposure. Stephen's goal was the NBA. If he didn't get enough attention in college, he might not be drafted in the lottery—or even in the first round. He might not be drafted at all.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Seth Greenberg put down his phone and shrugged. He couldn't see any potential in that baby-faced kid beyond his accurate shooting.

"This is fine. If VT won't give Stephen a full scholarship, we'll look at other schools. There's still UCLA, Michigan State..."

But Dell Curry, the owner of one of those houses, was in a foul mood.

Dell fell silent for a moment, then spoke with some difficulty:

Sonya and Dell exchanged a look, unsure what to say.

Davidson College, Virginia Commonwealth University, High Point University, and the College of William & Mary had all expressed interest in Stephen. How could he let his son waste a year on the bench?

Basketball was his dream and his passion. He'd been surrounded by the game since birth and was willing to give everything for it. But now, his dream seemed to be dying halfway through. Even Coach K didn't think he could play in the NCAA. Could he really make it to the NBA someday?

Sonya came out of the kitchen after hearing the phone hit the floor and saw Dell sitting dejectedly on the sofa. "What's wrong?" she asked.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

He couldn't help thinking back to the summer after his freshman year of high school. Under his father's guidance, Curry had spent two whole months changing his shooting form. It had been the most painful and unforgettable summer of his life.

Click!

Maybe I should just go to Davidson. Coach McKillop says I'm too skinny, too, but at least he's willing to give me a chance to play.

Curry didn't know the answer.

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

Dell fell silent for a moment, then spoke with some difficulty:

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

"We know. But the problem is, not one coach at a top school believes in Stephen. If this goes on, he'll have to play for one of those most obscure teams," Dell said with a bitter smile.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

He'd been rejected how many times? North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech...

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

He could afford his son's college tuition, of course. But a full scholarship wasn't just financial aid; it also represented a player's standing on the team. Only core players received full scholarships. Curry aspired to play in the NBA, and a full scholarship could guarantee him playing time and a place on the team. It was crucial to his future.

Sonya and Dell exchanged a look, unsure what to say.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

The light vanished from Curry's eyes. He bent down to pick up the basketball and wiped the sweat from his forehead with his already soaked collar. Then he managed a smile and said:

The light vanished from Curry's eyes. He bent down to pick up the basketball and wiped the sweat from his forehead with his already soaked collar. Then he managed a smile and said:

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

Curry didn't know the answer.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Curry saw their familiar expressions and had a bad feeling.

He picked up the large glass of water on the table, tipped his head back, and drained it. Then he lowered his head and slowly made his way upstairs.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"What's wrong? I thought I heard you arguing with someone."

"They're talking nonsense! They can't see Stephen's drive or his determination! He's performed better than anyone at every tryout. He's the best shooter and ball handler, but those people stubbornly insist he's too frail, that one hit will knock him apart. But we know that isn't true. Stephen's a tough kid!" Sonya's emotions ran high, and her voice grew louder and louder.

Dell fell silent for a moment, then spoke with some difficulty:

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

Seth Greenberg put down his phone and shrugged. He couldn't see any potential in that baby-faced kid beyond his accurate shooting.

A redshirt player was an athlete who delayed or paused participation in NCAA games in order to extend his eligibility. Many freshmen struggled to compete with veteran players and stars on their teams, so they chose to redshirt and spend a year focusing on training before competing for playing time as sophomores.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

North Carolina, Charlotte.

He picked up the large glass of water on the table, tipped his head back, and drained it. Then he lowered his head and slowly made his way upstairs.

Dell fell silent for a moment, then spoke with some difficulty:

Sonya came out of the kitchen after hearing the phone hit the floor and saw Dell sitting dejectedly on the sofa. "What's wrong?" she asked.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

An urgent knock sounded at the door. Curry's muffled voice came from beneath the towel:

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

How many times had he been rejected? North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech...

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

Maybe I should just go to Davidson. Coach McKillop says I'm too skinny, too, but at least he's willing to give me a chance to play.

Click!

Seth Greenberg put down his phone and shrugged. He couldn't see any potential in that baby-faced kid beyond his accurate shooting.

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"What's wrong? I thought I heard you arguing with someone."

"They're talking nonsense! They can't see Stephen's drive or his determination! He's performed better than anyone at every tryout. He's the best shooter and ball handler, but those people stubbornly insist he's too frail, that one hit will knock him apart. But we know that isn't true. Stephen's a tough kid!" Sonya's emotions ran high, and her voice grew louder and louder.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

The light vanished from Curry's eyes. He bent down to pick up the basketball and wiped the sweat from his forehead with his already soaked collar. Then he managed a smile and said:

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

Curry didn't know the answer.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

Dell had no answer, but his furrowed brow said it all.

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

"We know. But the problem is, not one coach at a top school believes in Stephen. If this goes on, he'll have to play for one of those most obscure teams," Dell said with a bitter smile.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

He couldn't help thinking back to the summer after his freshman year of high school. Under his father's guidance, Curry had spent two whole months changing his shooting form. It had been the most painful and unforgettable summer of his life.

"Stephen, I just got a call from Coach Brown. A school has invited you to try out!" Dell Curry's excited voice came from outside the door.

An urgent knock sounded at the door. Curry's muffled voice came from beneath the towel:

A redshirt player was an athlete who delayed or paused participation in NCAA games in order to extend his eligibility. Many freshmen struggled to compete with veteran players and stars on their teams, so they chose to redshirt and spend a year focusing on training before competing for playing time as sophomores.

But Dell Curry, the owner of one of those houses, was in a foul mood.

The atmosphere grew heavy.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

In his eyes, it should have been a given that Curry would get a full scholarship and join the Hokies. But Seth Greenberg had wanted Stephen to redshirt for a year. He might as well send his son to one of those obscure teams instead.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Seth Greenberg didn't care much about Curry. He only had a little interest in him and didn't believe a player with such a frail build could make it in the NCAA. Even if they didn't recruit him, the Hokies wouldn't lose anything.

"Dell, the coach just told me he's only willing to offer Stephen an academic scholarship, and he wants Stephen to redshirt for a year," Dell said.

Dell Curry slammed his phone onto the sofa. It hit the leather cushion, bounced high into the air, and landed on the floor without a scratch. Nokia really lived up to its reputation.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Curry saw their familiar expressions and had a bad feeling.

NCAA powerhouses and obscure teams had vastly different levels of exposure. Stephen's goal was the NBA. If he didn't get enough attention in college, he might not be drafted in the lottery—or even in the first round. He might not be drafted at all.

Sonya had heard the phone hit the floor while she was cooking. She came out of the kitchen and saw Dell sitting dejectedly on the sofa. "What's wrong?" she asked.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Curry saw their familiar expressions and had a bad feeling:

An urgent knock sounded at the door. Curry's muffled voice came from beneath the towel:

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

Curry didn't know the answer.

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

Seth Greenberg didn't care much about Curry. He only had a little interest in him and didn't believe a player with such a frail build could make it in the NCAA. Even if they didn't recruit him, the Hokies wouldn't lose anything.

"Dell, don't get worked up. I think highly of Stephen too, but he came to try out a little late. We've already finished recruiting Zabian and Harmon, and we only have one full scholarship left, which we need to use to strengthen our center position. I just can't give it to Stephen," Seth Greenberg said calmly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

"Hey Seth, are you saying you can't offer Stephen a full scholarship?" Holding his phone, Dell asked in disbelief.

Dell fell silent for a moment, then spoke with some difficulty:

Click!

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

He couldn't help thinking back to the summer after his freshman year of high school. Under his father's guidance, Curry had spent two whole months changing his shooting form. It had been the most painful and unforgettable summer of his life.

Click!

Maybe I should just go to Davidson. Coach McKillop says I'm too skinny, too, but at least he's willing to give me a chance to play.

Curry didn't know the answer.

"Tomorrow we'll go talk to that man. You've donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to VT, and you're a Hokies legend. How could they do this? Stephen was perfect at tryouts. He made every shot, every single one!" Sonya had a fiery temper. She paced back and forth in the living room, her voice full of anger.

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

As Sonya spoke, the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

"If Stephen didn't need a full scholarship, he could redshirt at Duke or North Carolina. I hope you'll reconsider for my sake. Stephen has extraordinary potential and deserves a full scholarship," Dell said earnestly.

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

Dell had no answer, but his furrowed brow said it all.

Maybe I really am too skinny. Maybe those coaches are worried I'll get knocked off my feet on the court, so they rejected me.

"We know. But the problem is, not one coach at a top school believes in Stephen. If this goes on, he'll have to play for one of those most obscure teams," Dell said with a bitter smile.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Curry dragged his tired legs back to his room, took off his uniform, and tossed it on the floor. After showering, he barely dried himself off before lying on his back in bed and covering his head with a towel.

He'd been rejected how many times? North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech...

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

He could afford his son's college tuition, of course. But a full scholarship wasn't just financial aid; it also represented a player's standing on the team. Only core players received full scholarships. Curry aspired to play in the NBA, and a full scholarship could guarantee him playing time and a place on the team. It was crucial to his future.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm not hungry. Go ahead and eat without me, Mom."

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Even Virginia Tech, the school he'd felt most confident about, had refused to offer Curry a full scholarship. Did that mean his son would have to settle for one of those obscure teams?

"What's wrong? I thought I heard you arguing with someone."

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Sonya spoke as the door opened. A tall, slender boy with a youthful, baby-faced look walked in. His large eyes gave him a delicate appearance, while his clear blue eyes held an oddly steadfast quality. He carried a basketball and wore a uniform soaked through with sweat. He was breathing hard.

"Stephen is my son. I believe he's good enough to earn a full scholarship from VT—the abbreviation for Virginia Tech." Dell barely restrained his mounting anger, stressing each word.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

An urgent knock sounded at the door. Curry's muffled voice came from beneath the towel:

"Stephen only wants to play for a college that can offer him a full scholarship, and I don't believe he can't handle the physicality of the NCAA." Dell Curry's voice turned cold as he hung up.

He'd been rejected how many times? North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech...

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

Curry didn't know the answer.

Bang, bang, bang!

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

"Dell, you know we already have Nigel Johnson on the team. I've also just recruited talented high schoolers like Zabian Dowdell and Harmon Gordon. We simply don't have another spot for a guard. If Stephen wants to play for the Hokies, he can only get an academic scholarship, and he'll have to redshirt for a year. But I believe he'll have plenty of chances to play next year." On the other end of the call, Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Seth Greenberg explained in an unhurried tone.

Sonya and Dell exchanged a look, unsure what to say.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Basketball was his dream and his passion. He'd been surrounded by the game since birth and was willing to give everything for it. But now, his dream seemed to be dying halfway through. Even Coach K didn't think he could play in the NCAA. Could he really make it to the NBA someday?

Back in the day, Dell Curry had led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament twice. He was a Virginia Tech Hall of Famer and had donated to the school many times. His wife, Sonya Curry, had been the star of Virginia Tech's volleyball team and helped establish a comprehensive youth program for the school.

In his eyes, it should have been a given that Curry would get a full scholarship and join the Hokies. But Seth Greenberg had wanted Stephen to redshirt for a year. He might as well send his son to one of those obscure teams instead.

Stonehaven, a community in southeastern Charlotte about a twenty-minute drive from Charlotte Christian School, was home to Charlotte's middle class and wealthy residents. It was safe and scenic, one of the city's best-known upscale neighborhoods. The developers' slogan promised that "a walk down these streets will put your mind at ease."

He was Dell Curry's son, Stephen Curry.

Seth Greenberg didn't care much about Curry. He only had a little interest in him and didn't believe a player with such a frail build could make it in the NCAA. Even if they didn't recruit him, the Hokies wouldn't lose anything.

"Dell, the coach just told me he's only willing to offer Stephen an academic scholarship, and he wants Stephen to redshirt for a year," Dell said.

Dell Curry slammed his phone onto the sofa. It hit the leather cushion, bounced high into the air, and landed on the floor without a scratch. Nokia really lived up to its reputation.

Dell Curry really was a Hokies legend. But the years when he'd led them in the NCAA were long gone. The Hokies were no longer the team they'd been back then, and being a former star didn't carry much weight anymore.

"Sorry. I can only offer an academic scholarship, and Stephen really is too frail. He'll need a year of structured training before he can adapt to the intensity of the NCAA and take the court. If you can accept that, I'd be glad to welcome Stephen to the Hokies," Seth Greenberg said.

Curry saw their familiar expressions and had a bad feeling.

NCAA powerhouses and obscure teams had vastly different levels of exposure. Stephen's goal was the NBA. If he didn't get enough attention in college, he might not be drafted in the lottery—or even in the first round. He might not be drafted at all.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

"I'm fine, Mom. I'll keep working hard on my game. And I still have schools like Davidson College and Virginia Commonwealth University to choose from."

He'd never thought Virginia Tech would reject his request.

He could afford his son's college tuition, of course. But a full scholarship wasn't just financial aid; it also represented a player's standing on the team. Only core players received full scholarships. Curry aspired to play in the NBA, and a full scholarship could guarantee him playing time and a place on the team. It was crucial to his future.

"Mom, what are you talking about? Did VT offer me a scholarship?" Curry set the basketball by his feet and looked at Sonya expectantly.

Bang, bang, bang!

An urgent knock sounded at the door. Curry's muffled voice came from beneath the towel:

"Stephen, I just got a call from Coach Brown. A school has invited you to try out!" Dell Curry's excited voice came from outside the door.