By Connor Smith
Sports Editor
Photo by Lily Gutierrez

Although this past Wednesday was only the second day of many this school year, it was certainly a special one for many members of the Mustang community, as former NBA player Eddy Curry stopped by after school in the library to give a motivational speech, followed by a question and answer period.

During his 45 minute appearance, Curry gave a brief motivational speech describing not only his playing career, but how important it is to always persevere and have a positive outlook. In addition, he emphasized how important education is, and how you need the essentials to set you up for success.

“Sports is just a small way to gain some things in your life, but you always have education,” Curry said.

After his speech, there was a question and answer period which featured many different questions ranging from not only his playing career and the NBA, but also how he overcame obstacles and determination being a key factor. Finally, there was an opportunity for photos, and various questions which may not have been asked during the conference.

“I like to have the opportunity to talk to somebody who really cares, just to know what I have to say,” Curry added.

Many of the questions asked were in-depth, and students enjoyed having the opportunity to talk to a former professional athlete. Overall, the event was well received by Metea students and staff.

Freshman dean Jennifer Rowe organized the event as a way to motivate students to have a great start to the school year, and to help both Eddy and his wife Patrice give back to the community.

“One of the things we are focusing in on is living with integrity and with that, I know our speakers will be talking about that and needing the sense to depend on others to be successful,” Rowe said.

In addition, the students and staff enjoyed what he had to say, and many felt motivated after hearing Curry’s stories and how he was always committed to what he did and resilient during tough times.

“The fact that he was still able to work at the age of 18, get into the NBA, and his second year in there, start playing against professional athletes? That’s pretty amazing,” senior Jason Lantz said.

Curry, a Chicagoland native, was a former high school basketball standout. He was drafted fourth overall in 2001 by his hometown Chicago Bulls, and spent seasons with them as well as the New York Knicks. Following that, he joined the Miami Heat in 2011 and was part of their 2012 championship team. Since then, he has played for the Dallas Mavericks and the Zheijang Golden Bulls in China, and has not played professionally since 2013. He regularly travels with his wife Patrice, a writer and TV personality who was the keynote speaker at last year’s Women’s History Celebration.