No matter which way you turn, it’s hard to avoid Golden State Warriors phenom Stephen Curry in sports media, and rightfully so. One story that has gained traction on social media recently surrounds Curry and his new shoe deal with Under Armour. The post claimed that Curry signed with Under Armour over Nike because the former was more open to printing religious material on the shoes.

In small wording reads “I can do all things…” It’s a segment of Curry’s favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13, which says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Now, the claims in the aforementioned post circulating Facebook are unproven. There is actually a lot more that has unfolded between Curry and Nike, which is chronicled in a recent article on ESPN.com.

Whether or not it’s true isn’t the point. Curry, the reigning NBA MVP, is proving himself as a sort of beacon in more ways than simply his basketball talent. In many places, such public displays of faith are somewhat taboo. That doesn’t stop Curry from wearing his favorite verse on his gear. It’s nice — even inspiring — to see him defy that and be so open about his faith.

While Curry is doing it on a national scale, sports teams openly embracing religion are commonplace here in Beaufort County. Players and coaches will often gather before and after games for a quick prayer.

Keeping with the basketball theme, it’s something that’s seen at every Southside basketball game. Not only do the Seahawks pray together after a game’s conclusion, but, win or lose, they also invite their opponent to join them. Just as Curry’s devotion has been inspirational, so too has Southside’s. It says something about the quality of young men and women in Beaufort County for them to not only turn their attention to God after competing, but also to invite opponents to join them in doing so.