Why It’s A Bit Odd That Steve Nash Is Training To Play Professional Soccer

2011 Showdown In Chinatown - Soccer Match
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Remember back in 2005 when Steve Nash showed off his soccer skills during the dunk contest? Well, Nash is putting those skills to professional use now. He’s been training with the New York Cosmos B Team of the National Premiere Soccer League, and could possibly play in an actual game on Sunday against the Rhode Island Reds.

Laker fans may scratch their heads at the news. Nash sat out most of the 2014-15 season with back and leg issues, and the injuries were so debilitating that they forced Nash to retire. Then again, he would have hung up the basketball kicks earlier, if he wasn’t actually trying to aid the Lakers. Transitioning to another professional sport is a curious decision for a 41-year-old with a serious back problem. Perhaps soccer presents a lower level of stress on his body? Nevertheless, Nash will pursue soccer, which has been a passion since he played at Santa Clara in college. Nash’s brother actually played for the Canadian national team, so it’s in the family.

Nash hosts an annual charity soccer event in New York, where he invites all kinds of celebrities to play in a pickup soccer game, and even some basketball peers.

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The two-time NBA MVP is no Carli Lloyd, but he does have some serious skills on the soccer pitch.

(New York Daily News)

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