It's clear that Steve Nash's decision to get the organization to trade him from the Phoenix Suns to their hated buddies in the Western Conference probably won't be a popular decision in Arizona anytime soon. It makes sense that he'd come out and issue a statement soon after the trade went down to try and explain the rationale for making this move.
For the last 8 seasons I've been blessed to play for a team and a city that has embraced me and that I have come to call home. This is a tough business and the only thing constant in life is change.
After talking with (owner) Robert (Sarver) and (president of basketball operations) Lon (Babby) we've agreed that it's time for both of us to move in new directions. I approached them and asked if they would be willing to do a sign and trade deal with L.A. because it is very important to me to stay near my children and family.
They were very apprehensive and didn't want to do it. Fortunately for me, they reconsidered. They saw that they were able to get assets for their team that will make them better, assets they would not have otherwise had and it made sense for them to do a deal that helps their team get better.
I couldn't be more grateful to the organization and Robert in particular. I know how hard this was for him and that fact that he was able to help me and my family in this way ... it means a lot and says a lot about his character. I will never forget this gesture. Above and beyond.
The Phoenix Suns are an amazing organization and fans should be excited about their future. I hope the Suns win a championship some day soon for all the amazing fans and wonderful people in the organization.
It'll be interesting to see the reaction from Suns fans about Nash trying to win a title from Los Angeles. I'm guessing there will be a lot of anger and irritation at the onset, but then there will be some appreciation for all that Nash has given the franchise, and eventually a level of acceptance at realizing Nash spent the bulk of his career in Phoenix and nearly took them to a few Western Conference championships. It might be hard for Suns fans to accept Nash in a Laker jersey though.
Talk about Nash with Lakers fans by checking out Silver Screen and Roll, and talk about Nash with Suns fans by going to Bright Side of the Sun.
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