Stephen Curry receives Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award for 'Eat, Learn, Play' foundation

July 16, 2026 - 00:14

Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry has been awarded the prestigious Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award, recognizing his extensive community work through the Curry family's "Eat, Learn, Play" foundation. The award, presented by the Muhammad Ali Center, honors athletes who demonstrate a deep commitment to creating positive social change.

Curry's foundation, based in Oakland, focuses on three core pillars that give the organization its name. The "Eat" initiative works to combat childhood hunger by providing nutritious meals to students and families in need. The "Learn" component supports literacy programs and creates safe spaces for children to read and grow academically. The "Play" effort revitalizes playgrounds and athletic facilities, ensuring kids have access to safe places for physical activity.

Since its founding, Eat, Learn, Play has served millions of meals, distributed hundreds of thousands of books, and renovated dozens of playgrounds across the Oakland area. Curry and his wife Ayesha have been hands-on leaders, frequently volunteering at events and engaging directly with families.

The award places Curry alongside past recipients who have used their platforms to address inequality, health disparities, and educational gaps. In accepting the honor, Curry emphasized that the work is far from finished, calling on other athletes and community members to join the effort. He noted that the foundation's mission is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to eat well, learn effectively, and play freely.