The man sweeping the gym floors never imagined he’d make headlines. But 20 years ago, he unlocked a backdoor at a neighborhood recreation center and let a 13-year-old boy sneak in to shoot hoops after hours.

NBA Finals: Steph Curry's 43-point masterpiece helps Golden State Warriors level series with Boston Celtics | CNN

That boy was Steph Curry.

This year, at a Warriors home game, Steph spotted someone in the tunnel and immediately ran over — it was Mr. Jennings, the same janitor who had given him the gift of time and space when no one else did.

Steph had invited him personally, seated him courtside with his family, and after the game, brought him into the locker room.

“I wouldn’t be here if he hadn’t let me in that day,” Curry said. “He gave me a court when I had none.”

Mr. Jennings, now retired, fought back tears as the entire Warriors roster stood to applaud him.

 

Sometimes, it’s the smallest acts of kindness that echo the loudest — and Steph never forgot.