Steve Nash Humorously Revisits Retirement Decision
Steve Nash recalls with humor how guarding Stephen Curry during a preseason game convinced him it was time to retire from basketball. His final stint with the Los Angeles Lakers was marred by injuries and a body that no longer responded as it once did.
The Turning Point Against Stephen Curry
Despite Lakers fans accepting his physical decline before he did, Nash’s realization came sharply during a game against the Golden State Warriors. On the show Mind the Game with LeBron James, Nash shared how facing Curry led to his decision to step away from the sport, according to Silver Screen and Roll.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?”
During that preseason matchup, the Warriors dominated with a 39-13 first quarter. Nash said,
“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.”
Reflection and Conclusion
After reflecting for a few days, Nash decided,
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”That game effectively marked the end of Nash’s celebrated career. He played the entire first quarter alongside Kobe Bryant, contributing just three points, two rebounds, and an assist, while Golden State controlled the game.
Career Impact
- Injuries limited Nash’s effectiveness during his Lakers tenure.
- Preseason game against Warriors highlighted his physical struggles.
- Decision to retire was influenced directly by challenges guarding Curry.
Author’s summary: Steve Nash’s humorous yet poignant account of guarding Stephen Curry reveals how that experience clarified the moment he realized it was time to retire from professional basketball.