Stephen Curry’s sneaker free agency is entering a decisive phase as the longtime face of modern basketball footwear continues to evaluate his next move.
On Sunday, February 22, Sole Retriever reported that Curry has narrowed his options to three brands, with ANTA confirmed as one of the finalists, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The update marks a significant development in one of the most closely watched endorsement stories in the NBA, given Curry’s global influence and rare control over his brand identity.
Curry officially became a sneaker free agent on November 13, 2025, after mutually ending his 12-year partnership with Under Armour. The agreement reshaped the endorsement landscape by allowing the Warriors star to take full ownership of Curry Brand and its intellectual property, including the widely recognized “Splash” logo.
Despite the split, Under Armour still released the Curry 13 in February 2026 and continue selling Curry Brand products through October 2026, ensuring a gradual transition rather than an abrupt exit.
Since entering free agency, Curry has used NBA games and warmups as a testing ground, rotating through sneakers from multiple manufacturers. The approach has turned every Warriors appearance into a live showcase, fueling speculation across both the basketball and sneaker industries.
Nike remains a major contender, given Curry’s roots with the company early in his career and his recent on-court wear. The brand’s established basketball infrastructure and global reach continue to factor into the decision.
ANTA’s presence in the final group signals Curry’s openness to international partnerships, particularly with brands that have aggressively expanded their NBA footprint in recent years.
The timing of the decision aligns with another productive season for Curry on the court. Through 39 games in the 2025-26 campaign, the 37-year-old is averaging 27.2 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds while shooting 46.8% from the field and 39.1% from three.
Those numbers anchor a Golden State offense that remains heavily dependent on his shot creation and spacing. The Warriors sit eighth in the Western Conference at 29-27, firmly in the playoff race but still searching for consistency.
From a business standpoint, Curry’s next shoe deal will extend beyond standard endorsement terms. Control over branding, product direction, and long-term equity are expected to be central elements, especially after his experience building Curry Brand under Under Armour.
No timeline has been announced for a final decision, and Curry has not publicly commented on the report. For now, the league’s most influential shooter continues to weigh his options while the sneaker world waits.
