The Business of Winning: Inside Steph Curry’s Entrepreneurial Journey with Thirty Ink

Embracing the Business Arena

When most people think of Steph Curry, they envision jaw-dropping three-pointers and dazzling plays on the basketball court. However, this dynamic athlete is making just as significant waves in the business world, showcasing that success goes beyond sports. As the CEO of Thirty Ink, Curry is not just riding on his athletic fame; he’s transforming it into a powerhouse of diverse brands.

A Profitable Portfolio

In 2024, Thirty Ink reported staggering revenues of $173.5 million, driven largely by a robust partnership with Under Armour. As president of the Curry Brand, which features basketball and golf footwear and apparel, Curry was rewarded with 8.8 million shares of Under Armour stock—valued at approximately $75 million—evidence of his significant impact on the brand’s bottom line.

But what sets Thirty Ink apart? According to Suresh Singh, the company’s secretary-chairman, Curry’s empire is built on savvy business models that don’t incur the traditional operational costs typically associated with celebrity brands. This strategic approach has allowed Thirty Ink to rack up an impressive $144 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) last year.

A Holistic Approach to Business

Curry’s business philosophy is rooted in a commitment to both profitability and purpose. Thirty Ink’s diverse portfolio includes Unanimous Media, Gentleman’s Cut bourbon, and Underrated Golf and Basketball—each aimed at elevating representation and opportunities in underrepresented communities.

Unanimous Media, co-led by Curry, is dedicated to hiring diverse talent, focusing on projects that celebrate family, faith, and sports. Their partnership with NBCUniversal exemplifies this mission, as they work to create uplifting content that resonates with audiences. The company has managed to stay profitable each year since its inception in 2018, showcasing a sustainable model that many athlete-driven businesses overlook.

The Gentleman’s Cut Bourbon

Among the portfolio’s standout products is Gentleman’s Cut bourbon, developed through a partnership with Boone County Distilling Co. Curry’s commitment to diversity extends here as well. Although a potential minority stake sale was stalled due to policy changes affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Curry continues to advocate for inclusivity in all his ventures.

His involvement with the Underrated Golf brand aims to provide Black and brown children with access to a sport traditionally dominated by privileged demographics. As Curry puts it, “It’s about creating true representation and opportunity from a grassroots level.”

Media Influence and Future Projects

One of the most exciting developments from Unanimous Media is their feature-length film, "GOAT," about a basketball-playing billy goat, set for release next year. It’s a unique take on storytelling that reflects Curry’s creativity and ability to entertain audiences while maintaining a clear narrative focus.

The themes of inspiration and upliftment resonate deeply in all Curry’s business ventures, and they are a core part of what the Extreme Investor Network champions—using influence and entrepreneurial spirit to enact positive change.

Conclusion: A New Era for Athletes

Steph Curry’s journey in the business world is a stellar example of how athletes can leverage their fame to create meaningful impact. Through Thirty Ink, he is proving that success on the court can lead to innovative and lucrative opportunities off it. As more athletes like Curry step into entrepreneurship, we can expect a shift in the landscape of business—a focus on diversity, equity, and sustainability that champions not just wealth, but also community upliftment.

At Extreme Investor Network, we believe that stories like Curry’s inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to redefine success on their terms. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the intersection of sports, business, and impact, providing insights that empower you to take strategic investment steps toward a brighter future.