Eddy Curry has worked through his growing pains and appears ready to reach his potential as solid NBA player.
Eddy Curry is featured in Suite101's NBA Player Profiles.
Name: Eddy Curry
Team: New York Knicks
Born: December 5, 1982: Calumet City, Illinois
Position: Center/Forward
Eddy Curry's Awards and Recognition:
- 4th Overall Pick 2001 NBA Draft
- NBA Leader in Field Goal percentage: 2002-2003
Eddy Curry's Other Distinctions:
- Parade Magazine HIgh School Player of the Year
- USA Today 1st Team All-American
- Illinois Mr. Basketball Award Recipient
- McDonald’s All-American Game MVP
Background: In an effort to try and rebuild after the Michael Jordan era, Eddy Curry was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 1st round, 4th pick overall, in the 2001 NBA Draft. The Bulls selected the hometown hero straight out of high school with hopes that Curry would quickly develop into a premier NBA player.
In High School Eddy Curry caught the eye of professional scouts after leading his team to the State Finals, where they finished second. He continued to impress NBA Scouts when he received MVP Honors at the McDonalds All-American Game.
The Bulls selected Curry hoping he would be the foundation for a new dynasty. However, Curry’s career has been hindered by Cardiac problems.
Eddy Curry's Early Life in NBA: Unlike other high profile rookies, Curry didn’t make much of an impression in his rookie year due to limited playing time. However, in his second professional season, Eddy Curry led the NBA in field goal percentage (58.5%). His 2003 season was considered a disappointment as he failed to live up to many expectations.
Curry’s 2004-2005 season is arguably his best as he led the Bulls in scoring and helped them reach the Playoffs. Unfortunately Curry was hospitalized with an irregular heartbeat causing him to miss the fruits of his labor as he missed the last 13 games of the regular season and the playoffs.
Eddy Curry's NBA Highlights: After recovering from his hospital stay, Curry was traded to the New York Knicks. Curry has quickly made himself comfortable in New York as he has averaged career highs in points (18.5), rebounds (7.2), and minutes per-game (33.7).
Phil Liaboe is a freelance writer and author of The Guild of Thieves. Learn more about his work at Phil Liaboe Books.
