Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry has called for changes to the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) to permit players to benefit from team equity and ownership gains. Speaking recently, Curry emphasized that the current rules prevent players from sharing in the increasing valuations of their teams, which he says is unfair given their role as key partners in the league’s success.
Current limitations on players’ financial involvement with team ownership
Curry explained that under the existing CBA provisions, players cannot participate in equity deals, limiting their earnings to short-term revenue rather than long-term ownership gains. He pointed out that this creates a disconnect between players and team ownership, despite their shared efforts to grow the league and its value. He highlighted the inequity by stating,
“The idea that we can’t participate in equity while we’re playing is a part of why I would say yes, we are underpaid because you want to be able to participate in that rise.”
Challenges and hopes for future discussions on ownership equity
Curry acknowledged the complexity of revising CBA rules, given concerns about salary cap circumvention and ensuring fair competition among markets. He stressed the importance of maintaining a level playing field, noting,
“you want every market to have a fair chance.”
Despite these challenges, Curry expressed optimism about ongoing talks to explore how players might become equity partners. He also recognized that many team ownership groups are increasingly formed by partnerships rather than single owners, reflecting the growing value and investment in the league’s teams.
Potential impact of allowing players to share in team equity
Encouraging players to participate in ownership stakes could align their financial interests more closely with the long-term growth of the NBA and foster greater motivation on and off the court. Curry suggested that owners might support such changes as well, saying,
“I would assume most owners would want that too to a certain extent because you want motivated partners. Like to do the extra stuff that helps grow the league, not just show up and just play and go home.”
As NBA franchise valuations continue to soar, revisiting these policies could reshape player compensation and partnership dynamics within the league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?
A. FIBA, which manages Olympic basketball, once limited player numbers to 4-15 to help officials during games. Although FIBA removed this rule in 2014, Team USA still follows this tradition during international competitions like the Paris Olympics. This explains why Curry continues to wear a specific number.