Honoring a Detroit Legend: The Naming of Earl Cureton Court

This morning, the Detroit including city officials, former teammates, former basketball players and fans gathered to celebrate the official unveiling of Earl Cureton Court, honoring the life and legacy of Earl “The Twirl” Cureton. The event was both a tribute and a moment of reflection, as Detroit came together to remember a man who was not just a basketball champion, but a true champion for the city.

A Legacy Cemented in Detroit

Cureton, a Detroit native and two-time NBA champion, made an indelible impact both on and off the court. His basketball career included time with the Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, Houston Rockets, and more, but his greatest work was done in the community. As a longtime community ambassador for the Pistons, he dedicated himself to mentoring young athletes, promoting education, and uplifting the city he loved.

His unexpected passing on Sunday at the age of 66 made today’s ceremony even more poignant. What was originally planned as a celebration became a time of remembrance, gratitude, and love for a man who gave so much to Detroit.

More Than a Street Name

The new Earl Cureton Court sign is an acknowledgment of a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Cureton once said, “Detroit made me who I am. It gave me the grit, the determination, and the heart to succeed.” Today, Detroit gave back, ensuring his name and impact live on in the very streets he called home.

Carrying His Legacy Forward

While his passing is a great loss, Earl Cureton’s influence remains alive in the people he mentored, the communities he uplifted, and the city he loved. Today’s gathering was not just about renaming a street—it was about recommitting to the values he embodied: perseverance, generosity, and community.

Rest in power, Earl “The Twirl” Cureton—your city will never forget you.