Steve John Nash

Steve Nash's Santa Clara Jersey (no.11) (http://www.santaclarabroncos.com/store)

"I think of a hero as someone who understands the degree of responsibility that comes with his freedom” (Bob Dylan). Nash is an extraordinary person that acknowledges that he is placed in his position for a reason, to give back and aspire to be the best he can possibly be. Steven John Nash was born in Johannesburg, Africa, but later moved with his family to Canada, where he spent most of his childhood. He attained a scholarship to Santa Clara University, where he played basketball for the school team. He led Santa Clara to several NCAA appearances, and was granted with the West Coast Player of the Year title. Eventually, in 1996, The Phoenix Suns drafted Steve Nash into the NBA. Nash demonstrates unyielding determination and selfless compassion through his actions, not only on the basketball court, but also in the world that surrounds it.

Steve Nash's

Although Nash is the star point guard for the Phoenix Suns, he didn’t get to that position without hard work, dedication, and most importantly, determination. Sean Gregory explains Nash’s attempts to attain a scholarship: “Nash sent dozens of letters and tapes to U.S. colleges and kept the rejection notes as motivation. He needed a shoe box to hold them” (Sean Gregory). Steve could have just attended any college that accepted him, but he was determined to go to one where he could make something of himself. Through this, Nash shows true perseverance, no matter what the circumstances are. He replies after a disappointing game: “I took it as, How many people get a chance to be booed by 20,000 people? As stupid or perverse as that sounds, I took it as a great opportunity to overcome something” (Steve Nash). Despite all the negative criticism he received, Steve Nash is still willing to take rejection and use it to improve himself. His will to become a better player and person exhibits his passion and determination. While he could have lost hope from the start, he is now a two-time NBA MVP, six-time NBA All-star, and just an overall outstanding player; he has achieved one of the highest ranks as a point guard in the NBA.

The Logo for the Steve Nash Foundation (https://stevenash.org/)

Nash reaches out a hand to those that are not as fortunate as he is. Sarah Stefanson states in her article: “The Steve Nash Foundation was formed in 2001 to help children affected by poverty, illness, abuse or neglect” (Stefanson). This illustrates that Steve Nash has the desire to see children grow up with the same opportunities he had. Nash's eagerness to give back to the community demonstrates his empathy for those that are suffering. Also, according to Tom Maloney: “Nash gave many summers to play for the Canadian Olympic team. He even gave $25,000 to split with the team in Sydney” (Maloney). This displays that Steve Nash is an incredibly generous man, who is willing to sacrifice for his team. This is proof that Steve Nash cares for people other than himself. Ultimately, Steve Nash has the compassion and heart to give out to those that are not as lucky as he is. He cares for those that cannot care for themselves.

Nash is an overall determined and sympathetic man. Nothing brings him down, and nothing will prevent him from giving back. Throughout his years, Nash has fought through strenuous obstacles to obtain his dreams, including college. He was chosen to play in the NBA, and has been playing wholeheartedly ever since. He has founded many organizations dedicated to helping people that cannot support themselves. This man, Steve Nash inspires us through his outstanding character and relentless determination. He gives to the needy and strives to be the best he can be. “A hero is a man who does what he can” (Romain Rolland).

Steve reading to underprivileged children. (http://valleyofthesuns.com)

Barkley, Charles. "Steve Nash.(Special Issue / The TIME 100)(TIME 100; Heroes & Pioneers)(Brief article)." Time. 167. 19 (May 8,2006): 122. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 6 May. 2010

Gregory, Sean, and Wendy Long. "A Dash of Nash: ... makes the Phoenix Suns sizzle. The perpetual motion guard from Victoria is now the NBA's best player.(Sport)(Profile)(Steve Nash)." Time Canada. 165. 20 (May 16, 2005): 46. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 6 May. 2010

"JockBio: Steve Nash Biography." JockBio • Full-length Biographies of Sports Heroes and Discount Sports Memorabilia. 2005. Web. 07 May 2010. .
Maloney, Tom. "Steve Nash: MVP, British Columbia.(Canada's Heroes)(basketball player, the Phoenix Suns)." Time Canada. 165. 25 (June 20, 2005): 42. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 7 May. 2010

Milbert, Neil. "Nash, Steve." World Book Student. World Book, 2010. Web. 30 April 2010.

Stefanson, Sarah. "Steve Nash Biography: Profile of the 2-Time MVP and Phoenix Suns Point Guard." Suite101. 2 Feb. 2009. Web. 07 May 2010. .