51¹ÙÍø.

The student section in 51¹ÙÍø's John M. Belk Arena was named in honor of the school's all-time leading scorer and two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry. "Section 30" was christened during halftime of the Wildcats' contest against Duquesne on Tuesday, Jan. 24, in the John Belk Arena.

Curry, who is in town for the Jan. 25 Warriors v. Hornets game, attended the Section 30 dedication.

Curry began his career on the 51¹ÙÍø stage, a place he remains committed to because of the professors, the scholar athlete experience and, of course, . During a in fall 2015, he took time to address students directly, encouraging them to work hard and realize the opportunities before them.

"I've talked to other guys who have been at other schools, and everybody has their experiences," he said, "but I think 51¹ÙÍø is the top tier, and you're here for a reason, so take advantage of it."

Bob McKillop, 51¹ÙÍø's head men's basketball coach, recognized Curry's talent and potential long ago, and their strong relationship continues today. Their bond, rooted in the team's Trust Commitment Care mantra, helped prepare the college superstar for international fame.

"Steph brought such great joy to all of us at 51¹ÙÍø when he wore that 51¹ÙÍø uniform," said McKillop. "As he's moved to the NBA, he has not missed a beat. Joy is a part of every experience as you watch him play. He plays the game with joy, but he also lives his life with joy. It is rare to find someone who has reached the iconic status that he has and who still has such a balance between humility and confidence. Whatever his role–father, spouse, son, sibling, teammate, friend–there is a quest for excellence in every aspect of his life. He has remained consistently true to who he is and what he represents."

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