LOOK: Stephen Curry Honors Joe Fortenberry for Inspiring His Dunking Skills

Stephen Curry Honors Joe Fortenberry for Inspiring His Dunking Skills

In a heartwarming tribute, NBA superstar Stephen Curry recently honored basketball pioneer Joe Fortenberry, the man credited with introducing the dunk to the sport. During an interview, Curry expressed his admiration for Fortenberry’s influence on basketball, acknowledging the trailblazing player’s contribution to scoring techniques that have become iconic in the game today. Though known for his incredible shooting range and skill as a playmaker, Curry took a moment to reflect on how Fortenberry’s impact shaped not just dunking, but the evolution of modern basketball itself.

Joe Fortenberry, a 6-foot-8 forward, played a pivotal role in the 1936 Summer Olympics, where basketball made its debut as an official event. It was during these Olympic Games in Berlin that Fortenberry first captivated the basketball world with what would later be known as the “dunk,” when he threw the ball into the hoop with force in front of a stunned international audience. This move, previously unseen at such a high level of competition, forever changed the way basketball was played and perceived.

Curry, reflecting on Fortenberry’s legacy, said, “Joe Fortenberry was a true pioneer. Before dunks became common and part of the highlight reel, he brought a new dynamic to the game that was groundbreaking. Even though I’m more known for my shooting, the dunk is something every basketball player looks to perfect at some point. Fortenberry paved the way for us all.”

While Curry is celebrated primarily for revolutionizing basketball with his three-point shooting, he is no stranger to the art of dunking. The two-time MVP and four-time NBA champion has shown versatility in his scoring skills, and during games, he has occasionally thrilled fans with a dunk, surprising many who expect his signature deep shots. In recognizing Fortenberry, Curry also acknowledges that every aspect of the game — from layups to three-pointers to slam dunks — is built on the shoulders of pioneers like Fortenberry.

As Curry continues to inspire a new generation of basketball players with his long-range shooting, his tribute to Joe Fortenberry serves as a reminder that innovation in basketball doesn’t just come from one place. Every move, every highlight, and every shift in how the game is played is rooted in the contributions of players who came before.

Fortenberry’s influence on the modern game may not always be at the forefront, but in recognizing his contributions, Curry shines a light on the deep history and rich heritage of basketball.