The Steve Nash era with the Brooklyn Nets did not go as hoped. Although he led the team to the playoffs in his first two seasons, he was dismissed just seven games into his third year amid trade demands from stars Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant.
“I hadn’t planned on coaching; it was a unique situation in Brooklyn that presented itself to me,” Nash told Cesare Milanti of Eurohoop. “It was a rapid transition, involving managing different dynamics and personalities—players, front offices, and agents. Managing these relationships and the influence players hold today was a significant part of my role.”
Now that Nash has stepped away from coaching, it appears he is not eager to return to the sidelines.
“Coaching was a valuable experience,” Nash said. “I didn’t aim to make coaching my lifelong career. Instead, I’m focused on coaching my kids and teaching them life lessons. I’ve earned the chance to choose my path, which is fulfilling. I’m involved in various projects, affiliations, and partnerships, and my focus is on my family.”
Previously, Nash worked as a player development consultant with the Golden State Warriors, earning a championship ring for his contributions. His connection with Kevin Durant was a key factor in his hiring by the Nets.
The Dallas Mavericks acquired Nash in the same 1998 NBA Draft night trade that brought Dirk Nowitzki to the team, creating a successful partnership in the early 2000s. Over six seasons in Dallas, Nash averaged 14.6 points and 7.2 assists per game, earning two All-Star selections and making the All-NBA Third Team twice. Mavericks owner Mark Cuban still regrets letting Nash go in 2004, believing his back issues would be a problem. However, Nash went on to win back-to-back MVP awards in 2005 and 2006 with the Phoenix Suns, leading the high-paced Seven Seconds or Less Offense.
