Who Was Earl Cureton, Member of the Inaugural Hornets Team? Exploring His Legacy and NBA Career

The NBA family has lost another gem with the devastating demise of former Charlotte Hornets veteran Earl Cureton. The 2-time champion’s passing was pretty unexpected as reports have revealed that he collapsed at his home this Sunday morning. This curveball has left many speechless as Pistons broadcaster George Blaha shared in the post-game of Detroit vs Magic, “We feel like we’ve been robbed,”.

Though many would remember the 12-year NBA veteran for his time at the Detroit Pistons, he was crucial for the Charlotte Hornets too, as he gave them a head start in 1988 when the team was inaugurated. He played all 82 games in the first season for Charlotte. He also recorded an impressive 532 points with an average of 6.5 in the first season, and this was with a FG% of above 50%. The 66-year-old, aka ‘The Twirl’, has contributed to several NBA teams in his long career, but each of his championships came from his time with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Houston Rockets. 

Cureton was loved for his contribution to the game of basketball and the Detroit community after his retirement in 1997. He was a coach in three different leagues including the NBA, but he was best known for his tenure with ABA’s Long Beach Jam in 2004, where he led them to a championship. After coaching, Cureton entered the world of broadcasting as well. 

He was the broadcaster for ESPN+, and his last broadcast was this Saturday (Feb 3) in the NCAA game between Detroit Mercy and Robert Morris. The 66-year-old’s contribution to the city of Detroit is unmatched. He was the community ambassador for the Detroit Pistons and his alma mater, the University of Detroit, until his demise. He played three seasons for the Pistons in his 12-year career too, which was considered as his prime years in the NBA. 

Detroit Pistons owner and many more mourn the terrible passing of Earl Cureton

It is safe to say Cureton played a part in putting Detroit on the map when it comes to basketball. Not just by playing for them, but also for his constant contribution after retirement. Pistons owner Tom Gores took this as a chance to appreciate Cureton’s efforts as the community ambassador for the last 10 years.

Gores shared, “Earl was one of the most generous, positive, and caring people I knew. He was a loving father, devoted to his family, and I was honored to be his friend. He was a champion as a player and an important ambassador in our community. We are heartbroken over his loss,”

Read more: “Rest in Peace”: Magic Johnson Pays Tribute to Earl Cureton, Fellow Michigan Native Who He Played Alongside on All-Star Team

Charlotte Hornet mourned Cureton’s death through X, “We are saddened by the passing of Earl Cureton, who played for us for two seasons, including being a member of our inaugural team in 1988-89. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

The success story of Earl Cureton might be a bit infamous, but his contribution to Michigan, especially Detroit, will always be remembered. 

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