Steve Nash stands as one of basketball’s most respected point guards, earning two consecutive NBA MVP awards during his time with the Phoenix Suns (2004-05 and 2005-06).
His MVP selections generated significant debate in basketball circles, as Nash averaged only 15.5 points per game during his first MVP season – relatively modest scoring numbers for a player receiving the league’s highest individual honor.
Nash’s excellence manifested primarily through his playmaking abilities rather than scoring prowess. The Canadian guard revolutionized the point guard position with his exceptional court vision, basketball IQ, and efficiency. His leadership transformed the Suns into one of the league’s most dynamic offenses during the mid-2000s.
Following his second MVP award in 2006, Nash narrowly missed capturing a third consecutive honor, finishing as runner-up to Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki in the 2006-07 season. This remarkable three-year stretch cemented Nash’s legacy among the elite players of his era.
Throughout his career, Nash achieved:
- 2× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 8× NBA All-Star selections
- Multiple All-NBA Team honors
- Hall of Fame induction
Nash’s influence extends beyond his playing days. Recently, he weighed in on the current MVP race, endorsing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder over other standout guards like Stephen Curry and Jalen Brunson. Nash praised Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership, character, scoring efficiency (approximately 30 points per game), and defensive capabilities.
“I would say Shai (Gilgeous-Alexander). You know, total respect to [Steph] Curry,” Nash said, in regards to who deserves it in 2025.
“I know I’m going to forget someone, but Jalen Brunson’s been amazing. There’s so many terrific guards out there. But Shai right now for me is, I think he’s the MVP this year. I think he’s just an incredible leader for his team (Oklahoma City Thunder). Great high character, 30 points a game, high efficiency, impossible in isolation to defend. So I would say Shai.”
Nash’s perspective on MVP discussions carries particular weight given his own controversial MVP wins. During an era featuring dominant scorers and physical specimens, Nash’s cerebral approach to basketball prevailed in MVP voting despite statistical profiles that some critics considered less impressive than competitors.
The Phoenix Suns teams led by Nash revolutionized NBA offenses with their up-tempo style and efficient scoring. His passing ability created opportunities for teammates while maintaining remarkable personal shooting efficiency from the field, three-point range, and free-throw line.
Nash’s career demonstrates that MVP recognition can acknowledge various forms of excellence beyond raw scoring totals. His success story remains especially relevant in today’s NBA, where point guards continue balancing scoring and playmaking responsibilities while facing immense pressure to perform at elite levels.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
