Steve Nash Comically Reveals How Stephen Curry Pushed Him Into Retirement
Steve Nash humorously reflects on how guarding Stephen Curry during a preseason game made him realize it was time to retire.
Struggles with the Los Angeles Lakers
Nash's time with the Lakers went poorly. What started as a hopeful final chapter quickly fell apart due to injuries and physical limitations. Lakers fans seemed to grasp it before Nash himself did.
The Moment of Truth Against Stephen Curry
On the podcast Mind the Game with LeBron James, Nash shared how a preseason matchup against the Warriors clarified his situation. Golden State dominated the first quarter 39-13, leaving Nash, a two-time MVP, questioning his ability to continue.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?” Nash recalled.
He explained,
“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.”
After reflecting for a few days, Nash concluded,
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”
End of a Legendary Career
That preseason game marked the unofficial end of his career. Nash played the entire first quarter alongside Kobe Bryant, recording just three points, two rebounds, and one assist as Golden State dominated the Lakers.
Summary: Steve Nash’s humorous and painful preseason encounter with Stephen Curry made him accept that it was time to retire from professional basketball.