Former Santa Clara star Steve Nash reportedly to enter hoops Hall of Fame.
OAKLAND » During the Warriors’ coaches meetings, Steve Kerr and his assistants often make a comment that crystallizes Steve Nash’s place in NBA history.
Kerr often has likened Warriors guard Stephen Curry to “Steve Nash on steroids.” Joking aside, Kerr’s comments illustrated one of many reasons why Nash will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2018 along with former St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda and Cal star Jason Kidd, Grant Hill, Maurice Cheeks and executive Rod Thorn. An official announcement will be made Saturday.
It also explains why the Warriors hired Nash in 2015 as a part-time playerdevelopment consultant. Through his 19-year NBA career with the Phoenix Suns (1996-1998, 2004-12), Dallas Mavericks ( 19982004) and Los Angeles Lakers (2012-2015), Nash finished third on the NBA’s all-time assists list (10,335) behind Jason Kidd and John Stockton.
“Steve is one of the smartest players who has ever played the game,” Kerr said. “He’s one of themost skilled and probably got more out of his physical ability than anybody I had ever seen.”
Because of those qualities, Nash won two regular- season MVP awards, landed on eight All- Star teams and was named on three All-NBA first teams. When Nash played for Mike D’Antoni with the Phoenix Suns (2004-2008), the tandem popularized a highpaced offense that put heavier emphasis on outside shooting, pick-and-rolls and positionless players.
So once the former Santa Clara star formally retired in 2015, the Warriors hired him as a part-time consultant. That arrangement gave Nash flexibility to live in Manhattan Beach, work with his movie production company and handle management duties with the Canadian national team. Kerr said he also likes that Nash only visits the team about once or twice a month.
“That is perfect because his work is unique. So is his voice. He’s also a separate voice from the staff. I think that’s actually more effec- tive than if he were here every day,” Kerr said. “It adds a different element. The players get used to us and our voices, and then all of a sudden, Nash shows up. It’s a little different, different energy and vibe and different advice. He has tremendous knowledge and the ability to teach. He’s an incredible asset for us.”
Nash spent time at the Warriors’ morning shootaround on Tuesday working with Warriors forward Kevin Durant. On Wednesday, Nash worked with Durant and second-year guard Patrick McCaw.
“I sat there mesmerized watching him at work,” Kerr said. “He picks apart the nuances of the game. He teaches so well. These guys were wrapped up listening to him and mimicking some of the moves he’s making.” That included Durant. “He’s someone I can talk to about anything, and somebody I really respect. His basketball mind is probably the best I’ve been around,” Durant said. “He’s continued to teach me different things I can put in my game.
“I’m very grateful for him and happy for him.”