Steve Nash Comically Reveals How Stephen Curry Pushed Him Into Retirement
Steve Nash humorously recalls a moment in preseason when guarding Stephen Curry made him realize it was time to retire. His final season with the Los Angeles Lakers was marred by injuries and physical struggles, which fans noticed before Nash himself did.
On an episode of Mind the Game with LeBron James, Nash shared how facing Curry was a wake-up call. During a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, the Warriors dominated the first quarter 39-13, leaving Nash doubting his ability to continue playing.
“I gotta find out, can I play hurt or what’s the point?” Nash recalled.
He described the challenge of guarding Curry while injured:
“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 on that game, Nash concluded:
“Yeah, I think it’s time.”
This preseason matchup effectively marked the unofficial end of Nash’s storied career. In that first quarter, playing alongside Kobe Bryant, he scored three points, grabbed two rebounds, and made one assist, while Golden State clearly dominated.
Author’s summary: Steve Nash’s humorous reflection on guarding Stephen Curry during a tough preseason game reveals the poignant moment that led him to accept retirement.