Steve Nash Humorously Reveals How Stephen Curry Pushed Him Into Retirement
Steve Nash’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers ended in disappointment as injuries and his body's limits took their toll. Lakers fans accepted his decline before he did, but a preseason game against Stephen Curry made Nash realize it was time to retire.
On a recent episode of Mind the Game with LeBron James, Nash shared the story of that moment, according to Silver Screen and Roll.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?” Nash recalled.
During a preseason game between the Lakers and the Warriors, Golden State scored an overwhelming 39–13 in the first quarter. Nash struggled to keep up with Curry.
“I’m guarding Steph,” Nash said. “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 a few days of thinking it over, Nash concluded:
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”
That preseason game marked the unofficial end of Nash’s illustrious career. He played the entire first quarter alongside Kobe Bryant, recording three points, two rebounds, and an assist while the Warriors dominated the Lakers.
Summary: Nash humorously reflects on how guarding Curry's dominance in the preseason made him face the reality of his declining physical condition, prompting his retirement decision.