Steve Nash Revealed How Stephen Curry Marked a Turning Point in His Career
In a recent episode of the Mind The Game podcast, Steve Nash opened up about a deeply personal moment involving Stephen Curry — one that ultimately influenced his decision to retire from the NBA. The story took place during a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, when Nash realized his body was no longer capable of performing at the same level.
A Moment of Realization
The former Canadian point guard recalled guarding the young Stephen Curry, who was rapidly rising as a star. That night in Ontario, California, exposed how far Nash’s physical abilities had declined, pushing him to reconsider his future in basketball.
“My nerves were shot, and I just couldn’t recover. I thought, ‘I have to figure this out.’ It had been a week since my last game. We were going to play them in the preseason, and I kept thinking, ‘I have to play through the injury. And if not, what’s the point?’”
Curry’s Reaction
During the conversation with LeBron James and Curry himself, the Warriors guard laughed as he remembered that night. Nash described the challenge of defending Curry, who was already showing signs of the brilliance that would define his career.
“We got on the court, and I was guarding Steph. I think they scored like 50 points in the first quarter — maybe 45, but it felt like 50. My back was shot, my body was done.”
Reflection on Legacy
That preseason game served as a symbolic handover between generations — from one of the NBA’s great playmakers to the player who would redefine shooting and style of play in the modern era.
Author’s Summary: Steve Nash’s recollection of facing young Stephen Curry revealed the moment he accepted the end of his playing career and recognized the rise of a new basketball era.