For Steve Nash, basketball was just one chapter in a life brimming with sports passion. Known for his dazzling passes and legendary court vision, the 2x NBA MVP ruled the hardwood for nearly two decades. Yet, soccer always had a hold on him. Even before retiring in 2015, Nash made waves by diving into his other great love—joining the ownership of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Fast forward 16 years, and the journey appears to be wrapping up.

Days ago, Whitecaps confirmed what had been swirling in rumors. The team’s ownership group, led by Greg Kerfoot alongside Nash, Steve Luczo, and Jeff Mallett, is ready to sell the franchise. However, the decision wasn’t a casual one either—the group brought in financial heavyweight Goldman Sachs to oversee the sale and ensure a smooth transition. Kerfoot, who’s been at the helm since 2002, initially brought Nash on board in 2008, a few years before the team joined the MLS in 2011 at a $40 million expansion fee. Now worth $470 million, Vancouver sits 27th out of the league’s 30 clubs in valuation.

So, what’s behind the decision to sell? Part of it boils down to timing. The report suggests Kerfoot and Luczo, both in their mid-60s, are ready to offload some assets. But it’s not just about personal priorities—the team itself hasn’t been soaring financially. With just $45 million in revenue in 2023 (the second lowest in MLS), the Whitecaps have faced significant hurdles, even with an average attendance of 26,700 at BC Place. Adding to the uncertainty, their lease for the stadium ends after next season, throwing the club’s future into further question.

Making the news official, the club released its statement, writing, “The owners of Vancouver Whitecaps FC – Greg Kerfoot, Steve Luczo, Jeff Mallett and Steve Nash – today announced the initiation of a process to sell the club. This decision comes after careful consideration of the club’s journey and reflection on what is required to ensure its continued growth and success.”

However, for Nash, soccer isn’t taking a backseat anytime soon. He remains co-owner of Spanish side RCD Mallorca, a stake he acquired back in 2016 alongside Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver for $21 million.

Right now, things are looking good for Mallorca. Sitting fifth in La Liga with 27 points after 18 games, they’re eyeing a coveted spot in European competition next season. Whether in Vancouver or Mallorca, one thing remains the same—Steve Nash’s love for the beautiful game.

Steve Nash’s love for soccer

For Steve Nash, soccer isn’t just a pastime; it’s practically in his DNA. Growing up playing the sport, Nash developed a lifelong love for soccer, largely influenced by his father, who hailed from Tottenham, London. Unsurprisingly, Nash is an avid Tottenham Hotspur fan, a loyalty that might’ve been matched on the pitch had he pursued soccer professionally. In fact, he once admitted he “could’ve made it” had he put more focus on the game.

In 2009, he dove deeper into the game by investing in the Women’s Professional Soccer League alongside the former president of Yahoo! And let’s not forget his annual charity event, “SHOWDOWN IN CHINATOWN.” This 8-on-8 soccer showdown at Roosevelt Park brought out the best in Nash’s skills as he scored twice in his team’s 8–5 victory.

Nash’s love for the game also helped him forge friendships with some of soccer’s biggest names. Legends like Thierry Henry, Alessandro Del Piero, and Steve McManaman count him among their friends. His fandom doesn’t stop there—Nash also supports Brazilian club Corinthians and even received a personalized jersey from the club in 2007 when his ex-teammate Leandro Barbosa visited the team.

And talk about commitment! At the age of 39, Nash tried out with Italian giants Inter Milan during a 2013 session in New Jersey. He didn’t land a pro soccer gig but continues to use the sport for good by hosting annual charity matches to help underprivileged kids. Clearly, Nash’s passion for soccer goes way beyond the sideline.