Steve Nash makes it official: “I’m retiring”
Steve Nash‘s illustrious basketball career has come to an end.
As the star point guard of the Phoenix Suns, Nash played in eight All-Star Games. (Photo: Canadian Press)
In an open letter to fans posted on The Players Tribune, the Canadian basketball legend officially announced his retirement. It is safe to say that Nash is the most decorated Canadian basketball player ever.
Nash left a significant mark on the game as he has a seemingly never-ending list of accomplishments. He is an eight-time NBA All-Star; he won back-to-back MVP Awards; he has the highest career free throw percentage in NBA history; he was awarded the 2004 Lou Marsh Trophy; he represented Canada at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and nearly back again for Athens 2004, but despite his most valuable player performance in qualifying, Canada fell short..
Nash is currently the general manager of Canada’s men’s national team as it looks toward Rio 2016 Olympic Games qualification.
Steve Nash won the NBA’s MVP Award in both the 2004-05, seen here, and 2005-06 seasons. (Photo: Canadian Press)
An unfortunate back injury forced Nash to sit out this entire NBA season. It was the third year in a row that his season was cut short by injury, putting his future in question.
In truly Canadian fashion, Nash thanked many of the coaches, teammates, family members, friends and fans that helped him succeed. One of the people that he showed appreciation for is Olympian Jay Triano, who Nash hired as head coach of the National Team.
Jay Triano is one of the many people that helped Nash reach his full potential. (Photo: Canadian Press)
Nash said, “I looked up to Jay Triano, a star guard on the Canadian national team, as a kid. He recruited me in high school and coached me in the Sydney Olympics. His love for the game and competitive nature was always infectious. I never had more fun playing for anyone. Representing Canada in the Olympics was the best experience of my career, and he got us there.”
Steve Nash competes in the men’s basketball tournament at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
Although Nash never played for the Toronto Raptors, as many fans always dreamed, his impact on the game of basketball in Canada will never be forgotten. It wouldn’t be surprising if Nash continues to make a mark as GM of Canada’s ever-improving national team. He has a wealth of experience to share with youngsters Andrew Wiggins, Anthony Bennett and many others as they search for NBA, international and Olympic success.
In 2012, Nash took over as the general manager of the Canadian men’s senior National Team. (Photo: Canadian Press)
Captain Canada deserves praise for all that he has done and will continue to do for Canadian basketball.
