Earl “The Twirl” Cureton was an NBA player and college standout who excelled at the University of Detroit Mercy and played pro ball with the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and others.
- Died: February 4, 2024 (Who else died on February 4?)
- Details of death: Died in Detroit at the age of 66.
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Earl Cureton’s legacy
Born in Detroit and growing up in the city during a tumultuous period in the 1960s, Cureton stood out as an athlete at Finney High School, but he didn’t become a true star until attending the University of Detroit Mercy. He played under legendary coach Dick Vitale, who gave him the nickname “The Twirl,” and helped lead the team to a spot in the 1979 NCAA tournament. He was drafted by the 76ers while still a junior in college.
Cureton played with the Sixers and won a championship with them in 1983, then joined his hometown Pistons in 1984. After three seasons in Detroit, he bounced around between teams for the rest of career, spending time with the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Clippers, Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets (with whom he won a second championship), and Toronto Raptors. He also played in France, Mexico, and Argentina.
After retiring from the NBA, Cureton coached for teams in the ABA and WNBA, though he would be best known as a Community Ambassador for the Pistons. In that capacity, he worked with charitable organizations, appeared at public events, and served as a link between the team, city, and community.
Tributes to Earl Cureton
Full obituary: MLive.com
