Stephen Curry shocked the entire basketball world by revealing that Draymond Jamal Green Jr., the son of his close teammate Draymond Green, was one of the key figures who helped lift him out of his depression after the early exit from NBA this year. “That kid is truly making an extraordinary effort to chase his dream,” Curry candidly praised the young boy to Green.

In a surprising revelation that has touched the hearts of basketball fans worldwide, Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry credited Draymond Jamal Green Jr., the young son of his teammate Draymond Green, for playing a pivotal role in helping him navigate a challenging period of depression following the team’s early exit from the NBA playoffs earlier this year. Curry’s candid remarks, shared during a heartfelt conversation with Green, shed light on the remarkable emotional intelligence and maturity of the young boy, who aspires to become a basketball coach and has already begun honing his skills by supporting his father’s teammates.

A Season of Struggles

The 2024-2025 NBA season was a rollercoaster for the Golden State Warriors. Despite their storied legacy as one of the league’s most dominant franchises, the team faced an unexpected early exit from the playoffs. For Curry, a four-time NBA champion and one of the greatest shooters in basketball history, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. The weight of unmet expectations, coupled with the intense scrutiny that comes with being a global sports icon, took a toll on Curry’s mental health. In a rare moment of vulnerability, the two-time MVP opened up about his struggles, admitting that he battled feelings of disappointment and self-doubt in the aftermath of the season.

Enter Draymond Jamal Green Jr., affectionately known as “DJ” to those close to him. At just a young age, DJ has already shown a remarkable passion for basketball, not as a player but as an aspiring coach. Inspired by his father, Draymond Green, a fiery and vocal leader on the court, DJ has taken it upon himself to learn the intricacies of the game, including the often-overlooked aspect of emotional leadership. According to Curry, DJ’s efforts to uplift those around him have made a profound impact, particularly during one of Curry’s lowest moments.

A Young Coach in the Making

DJ’s dream of becoming a basketball coach is no passing fancy. Those close to the Green family describe him as a studious and empathetic young boy who spends hours watching game tapes, studying playbooks, and observing his father’s interactions with teammates. But what sets DJ apart is his innate ability to connect with others on an emotional level. Recognizing the high-pressure environment that professional athletes navigate, DJ has made it his mission to offer support and encouragement to the Warriors players, many of whom he views as extended family.

“DJ has this incredible gift,” Curry said in his conversation with Draymond Green. “He’s not just watching the game—he’s watching us. He sees when someone’s down, when they’re frustrated, or when they need a boost. That kid is truly making an extraordinary effort to chase his dream, and he’s already so good at it.”

Curry recounted a specific moment after the Warriors’ playoff elimination when DJ approached him. The young boy, with a sincerity that belied his age, offered words of encouragement that resonated deeply with the veteran guard. “He told me, ‘Steph, you’re still the best. You don’t need a trophy to prove it. Just keep shooting.’ It was so simple, but it meant everything,” Curry shared, his voice tinged with emotion. “It’s like he knew exactly what I needed to hear.”

The Power of Emotional Support in Sports

Curry’s story highlights a growing recognition within the sports world of the importance of mental health and emotional support. Professional athletes, despite their larger-than-life personas, face immense pressure to perform, often at the expense of their well-being. The NBA has made strides in recent years to address mental health, with teams providing access to therapists and resources to help players cope with the demands of their careers. However, DJ’s contribution underscores the value of personal connections and the impact that even a young individual can have on a team’s morale.

Draymond Green, known for his intensity and leadership on the court, was visibly moved when Curry shared the story. “DJ’s always been a special kid,” Green said in a follow-up interview. “He’s got this fire in him, just like me, but he’s got a softer side too. He’s learning how to be a leader, not just by calling plays but by lifting people up. I’m proud of him, and I know Steph means the world to him.”

DJ’s approach to supporting his father’s teammates is a testament to his budding coaching instincts. He often spends time at Warriors practices, observing drills and taking mental notes on how coaches motivate players. According to sources close to the team, DJ has even been known to offer suggestions during informal conversations, displaying a level of basketball IQ that has impressed even the most seasoned members of the Warriors’ staff.

A Bond Beyond the Court

The relationship between Curry and DJ is particularly special. Curry, a father of three, has always been known for his warmth and approachability, both on and off the court. His connection with DJ is a natural extension of his role as a mentor and role model to younger generations. “Steph’s like an uncle to DJ,” Green said with a smile. “They’ve got this bond that’s hard to explain. DJ looks up to him, and Steph genuinely cares about him.”

For Curry, DJ’s presence has been a source of joy and inspiration. “He’s got this infectious energy,” Curry said. “When you’re around him, you can’t help but feel lighter. He’s going to be an incredible coach one day, but honestly, he’s already making a difference.”

Looking Ahead

As the Warriors prepare for the upcoming season, Curry is determined to bounce back from the challenges of the previous year. With DJ in his corner, he has an unexpected ally cheering him on and reminding him of the bigger picture. “Basketball is about more than just winning games,” Curry reflected. “It’s about the people you share it with, the ones who lift you up when you’re down. DJ gets that, and he’s only a kid. That’s what makes him so special.”

DJ’s journey to becoming a basketball coach is just beginning, but his impact is already being felt. His story serves as a reminder that leadership comes in many forms and that even the youngest among us can make a profound difference. For Curry, DJ’s words of encouragement were a lifeline during a dark time, a testament to the power of empathy and the enduring bonds forged through the game of basketball.

As the NBA world continues to buzz about this heartwarming story, one thing is clear: Draymond Jamal Green Jr. is a name to watch. Whether he’s offering words of wisdom to a struggling superstar or studying the game with the intensity of a seasoned coach, DJ is already leaving his mark on the sport he loves. And with mentors like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green guiding him, the future looks bright for this young leader in the making.