The Curry crew had every reason to celebrate on March 17th. While we’re used to seeing Stephen and Ayesha Curry shine in the spotlight, this time, they were just beaming parents cheering from the sidelines. Along with little Canon and baby Caius, the couple showed up in full support of their oldest, Riley. And it wasn’t just any game—it was the NorCal Winter Classic 2025, the biggest volleyball tournament in Northern California.
Riley’s squad, the Academy Volleyball Club, didn’t just show up—they dominated. They walked away with the championship, and honestly, it was one of those proud parent moments you just don’t forget. But it wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Ayesha.
Ayesha Curry understands how tricky it can be to walk the fine line between supporting your child’s interests and letting go of your own dreams for them. During a conversation with Malika Andrews, the 35-year-old entrepreneur and wife of NBA star Stephen Curry opened up about a turning point in her daughter Riley’s early interests.
May 26, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Ayesha Curry, wife of Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (not pictured), with her children after winning game five of the 2022 western conference finals against the Dallas Mavericks at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
When Malika asked, “Why is it important for parents not to push their kids to specialize from a parent perspective?” Ayesha offered a refreshingly honest response.
“Creating this lackluster environment and them not really enjoying what they’re doing. If you implement that at such a young age, like everything is just going to become mundane and more, and in lackluster,” Ayesha explained.
She then shared a personal moment many parents can relate to—realizing your child isn’t enjoying the activity you love.
“And so I want it. My girls to ride so bad. I was all about the equestrian,” the Warriors superstar’s wife admitted. “I had to take a step back and be like she, she actually doesn’t like, like, it’s time to call it.”
Letting go wasn’t easy, but it proved to be the right call. Today, Riley has traded horseback riding for volleyball—and the change has made all the difference. “And now, she’s playing volleyball, she’s thriving. And she loves it,” Ayesha shared proudly.
Sometimes, the best parenting move is knowing when to pivot, even if it means changing your favorite sport. And if you’re stuck wondering whether it’s “too late” to add another kid to the mix, Ayesha’s experience might just give you that final nudge.
Ayesha Curry opens up about her kid’s age gap
If you’ve ever hesitated to have another baby because of a big age gap—this might be the sign you needed. Ayesha Curry just got real about it, and honestly, her story hits home.
When she and Steph welcomed their fourth child, Caius, in May, their other kids—Riley (12), Ryan (9), and Canon (6)—were already well into their own stages of life. Naturally, Ayesha admits, “We were worried about having the six-year gap between our son and Cai Cai, and it’s been magical. He truly feels like a big brother. He only wants to protect him. There’s no jealousy. I love it.”
And let me tell you, Canon is clearly thriving in his role as the protector. Meanwhile, Riley and Ryan? Ayesha calls them “little moms.” She said, “It’s the best decision we’ve ever made, honestly.” That level of sibling support? Not always guaranteed, but when it clicks, it’s amazing.
Nov 22, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) with wife Ayesha Curry prior to the game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
What’s the Curry family’s secret sauce? Keeping their relationship strong at the core. “I think for us, our relationship always comes first,” Ayesha told PEOPLE. “Then we’re parents.” She believes a healthy marriage leads to a happier family life: “You have two happy people raising the kids.”
In a separate chat with SheKnows, Ayesha reflected on the shift after baby #4, admitting, “Navigating has been wild, but things are going great so far.” Her older girls have even started helping around the house.
So yeah, if you’re second-guessing the timing? Ayesha’s lived it—and she says it’s more than worth it.
The post Daughter Riley’s Distaste for Ayesha Curry’s Favorite Sport Forced Life-Changing Decision With Stephen Curry appeared first on EssentiallySports.
