Saint Joseph's Athletics mourns the passing of Men's Basketball and Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Famer Ralphal "Rap" Curry Jr. '94.

One of the top guards in Saint Joseph's men's basketball history, Curry was a four-year standout (1990-94) and guided the Hawks to a pair of Big 5 titles and a NIT appearance as a junior in 1993. A three-time All-Big 5 selection, Curry led the Hawks in assists and steals during three seasons, setting a then program mark for career assists with 580. Making an immediate impact at Saint Joseph's earning Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team honors, Curry appeared in 107 games in the Crimson and Gray and ranks seventh all-time in steals (195), 25th all-time in scoring (1,372 points) and 45th in rebounds (521), along with sharing the record for most assists in a game with 14. Curry was inducted into the SJU Men's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Fame in 2008.

"The Story of Saint Joseph's Basketball is built on the legacy of its former players. Great young men who gave all they had to be ambassadors for Hawk Hill and wear the Crimson and Gray. Rap Curry embodied everything great about SJU. An engaging personality, a leader, and a Big 5 Hall of Famer, who lived out the Jesuit mission of serving others," said Saint Joseph's Head Coach Billy Lange. "My brother, Mark, who was a team manager during Rap's time in the program, often spoke of Rap's connection skills and how his teammates loved him. We will pray for the faithfulness and endurance of his family during this time."

"I was blessed to have coached Rap for several years. We have had great guards at Saint Joseph's, and without being disrespectful to anyone, he was one of the best. He was an NBA talent, if not for the injuries," said former Saint Joseph's Head Coach John Griffin. "Rap was a remarkable player, but an even better leader and person. And that became more evident after his time at Saint Joseph's with his work in higher education. He was a terrific husband, father and son."

"Rap was a joyful and charismatic person, who made an impact both on the court, and in people's lives," said former Saint Joseph's Vice President/Director of Athletics Don DiJulia '67. "He was the whole package - loyal, caring and faith-filled. God bless his wife Gina and family."

Following his years on Hawk Hill, Curry began his career in higher education, most recently serving as Coordinator of District Athletics for William Penn School District.

Details of Curry's celebration of life will be announced at a later date.