Patryk Stachowiak
In the world of elite sports where player salaries often eclipse the GDP of small nations, it’s easy to scoff at the notion that NBA athletes are “underpaid.” But Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ iconic sharpshooter, isn’t talking about paychecks alone he’s pointing to equity, and what current rules stop players from tapping into.
“We Can’t Participate in Equity” Curry’s Real Gripe
In a revealing off-season sit-down with Complex’s Speedy Morman, Curry answered bluntly when asked if NBA players are underpaid:
“Because of the way the CBA is structured right now, we can’t participate in equity. And that’s a big deal.”
He went on to explain the math behind it.
“Those numbers sound crazy”
he admitted, referring to player salaries.
“But what the league is doing… is probably 10x that.”
The frustration lies not with earnings on the court, but with being excluded from the broader financial pie. While franchise valuations soar thanks in no small part to the players the very people driving those valuations can’t legally share in the equity while still active in the league.
Big Contracts, Bigger Discrepancy
To be clear, Curry’s own earnings are staggering. In August 2024, he inked a one-year, $62.6 million extension with the Warriors, locking him in through the 2026–27 season. Oklahoma City Thunder’s MVP guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? He signed a four-year, $285 million extension, averaging $71.3 million per year starting in 2027–28.
So what’s the issue? Despite these colossal figures, Curry believes the revenue NBA players are helping generate through global merchandising, media rights, and team valuations—outpaces even these numbers. And without a stake in the rising value of the franchises themselves, players are locked out of long-term financial upside.
Stephen Curry. Source: newsweek.com
Social Media Reactions: Mixed, But Thought-Provoking
Curry’s remarks sparked debate across social platforms. Many agreed:
“The Warriors were worth $315 million before they drafted him. They’re now worth $9 billion. He should definitely have equity”
Others raised concerns:
“What happens when a player with equity gets traded? Does he keep shares of multiple teams?”
There were also those who pushed back on moral grounds. “Technically they are underpaid, yes. Morally they are massively overpaid, as are the owners and media companies cutting the checks.”
What’s Next?
To Curry, it’s about fairness in a partnership. “We’re blessed to play basketball for a living,” he said, “but I hope those rules change… so players can participate more in the upside.”
Whether or not the NBA and its owners are ready to allow equity access during players’ active careers is another matter. But Curry’s comments have cracked open a conversation the league can’t afford to ignore especially as athletes continue to become global brands with influence that stretches far beyond the hardwood.
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