Steve Nash Comically Reveals How Stephen Curry Pushed Him Into Retirement
Steve Nash recently shared a humorous yet revealing story about how guarding Stephen Curry in a preseason game convinced him that his time as an NBA player was over. His tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers began with optimism but quickly turned sour due to recurring injuries and a body that could no longer meet the demands of the game.
While Lakers fans had already sensed that Nash’s career was nearing its end, he himself didn’t accept it until one defining moment. Appearing on the podcast Mind the Game with LeBron James, Nash spoke candidly about the experience that made him realize it was time to step away.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?” Nash recalled.
During a preseason matchup between the Lakers and the Golden State Warriors, the Warriors dominated the first quarter with a 39–13 run that left the two-time MVP reflecting deeply on his career.
“I’m guarding Steph,” Nash said. “I couldn’t stop him even 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 a few days of reflection, Nash accepted the inevitable.
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”
That preseason night against the Warriors became the unofficial farewell to Nash’s illustrious basketball journey. Playing alongside Kobe Bryant, he logged just three points, two rebounds, and one assist as Golden State overwhelmed the Lakers.
Author’s Summary
Steve Nash admitted that facing Stephen Curry in a preseason game with the Lakers made him realize his body could no longer compete, prompting his decision to retire from basketball.