Steve Nash on How Stephen Curry Pushed Him into Retirement
Steve Nash recently shared a humorous yet telling story about the moment he realized his basketball career was over. Reflecting on his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, Nash admitted that constant injuries and declining performance made him question how long he could keep playing.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?”
During a preseason game between the Lakers and the Golden State Warriors, Nash found himself guarding Stephen Curry. The Warriors dominated the first quarter with a 39–13 run, and Nash quickly saw the writing on the wall.
“I’m guarding Steph. I couldn’t stop him if I was 100 percent. I’m dragging around, and Steve Kerr is putting me in every action. I’m looking over at Steve like, ‘C’mon, Stevie.’ They’re laughing at me.”
A few days later, after some quiet reflection, Nash reached a clear conclusion about his playing days.
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”
That preseason game effectively marked the end of Nash’s remarkable career. Playing alongside Kobe Bryant, he scored three points, grabbed two rebounds, and added one assist as Golden State outpaced the Lakers with ease.
Author Summary
In a candid reflection, Steve Nash revealed that facing Stephen Curry in a preseason game humorously confirmed his decision to retire from basketball.