Nash prefers to stay at home despite lockout
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China Daily, July 28, 2011
Although hailing the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league as a fine destination for NBA players, the Phoenix Suns' MVP guard, Steve Nash, believes he will stay with his family during the current league lockout.
"Like I said before, if I did not have three daughters to take care of I would like to come and play in the CBA," Nash said during a press conference on Monday in Shanghai.
The event was hosted by his sponsor, Luyou, and unveiled the all-star guard's personal logo while he shared some of his favorite moves and shots with local fans.
"I know I have got a lot of diehard fans here, it's incredible. The basketball league here is also awesome. It's definitely a good league for all players worldwide. But I would like to stay with my family during the holidays," said Nash, who arrived in China last Saturday for a four-day charity visit organized by the sports company.
Before the press conference, Nash paid a visit to Banqiao High School in Yunnan province, where he raised donations to build a new sports ground.
Having signed with the elite sportswear brand in January, Nash, who claimed the NBA MVP award twice - in 2005 and 2006, is now keen to expand his charity campaign to a larger area.
However, the recent retirement of Yao Ming has denied the pair of the opportunity this year to host their charity games, which were launched in 2007.
"Although Yao has quit, I believe his charity efforts will continue. And we will definitely have more cooperation on that together," Nash said.
"Yao was a dominant player with great achievements on and off the court. He's done everything well in each field. Without him, I might not be here to sign with a Chinese brand or get lots of support here," said the 37-year-old Canadian.
As a veteran, Nash said an NBA championship ring was still a strong lure for him, but he said he would not change teams to achieve that goal.
"Every player wants the ring. We were very close to it many times. Changing teams may be a way. But I don't think I will join another team; I prefer to stay in Phoenix. Hopefully, we can go further next season," said Nash.
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