Steve Nash Credits Steph Curry for Inspiring His Retirement
On a recent episode of the "Mind the Game" podcast, Steve Nash shared a humorous story with LeBron James and Steph Curry about how he realized his NBA career had reached its end — and how Curry accidentally played a role in that moment.
A Defining Preseason Moment
The story goes back to the 2014–15 preseason when Nash’s Los Angeles Lakers faced the Golden State Warriors in Ontario, California. The Warriors exploded for a 39-point first quarter and cruised to a 116–75 victory. Curry led the charge, scoring 12 points in the first two and a half minutes and finishing with 25 points in just 24 minutes.
Nash’s Realization
Nash, who was battling chronic back problems, quickly understood the physical gap between his body and the next generation’s pace. He recalled feeling helpless trying to guard Curry as he sprinted around screens.
“I’m guarding Steph. They put up like 50 in the first quarter — maybe it was 45, but it felt like 50. I couldn’t have stopped him even if I was completely healthy,” Nash said.
After reflecting for a few days, Nash knew it was time.
“Man, after three or four days of thinking on it, I was like… yeah. I think it’s time. You put me out!” he joked to Curry.
The Final Season
By July 2014, Nash had already hinted that the 2014–15 campaign would be his last. The 40-year-old played only three preseason games before his back issues returned, including the matchup against Golden State. On October 23, 2014, he was ruled out for the season — effectively marking the end of his Hall of Fame career.
Author’s Summary
Nash humorously credits Curry’s dazzling preseason performance in 2014 as the moment that confirmed his decision to retire, underscoring his respect for the game’s evolving speed and talent.