Dragic's relationship with Nash influenced decision to join Nets

Brooklyn Nets guard Goran Dragic says six contenders battled for his services, but his connection with head coach Steve Nash contributed to winning him over in the end.

"Steve was my mentor. ... When I came to the league, I played with him. And now - you never know - to finish my career with him would be awesome," Dragic told reporters Wednesday.

The San Antonio Spurs selected Dragic 45th overall in 2008 and subsequently dealt his draft rights to the Phoenix Suns.

Dragic was Nash's understudy in Phoenix for parts of three seasons before being dealt to the Houston Rockets during the 2010-11 campaign. He returned to the Suns in free agency one year later to replace Nash as the starting point guard.

Nash is excited to work alongside Dragic again, more than a decade after their stint in the desert.

"(Dragic) adds experience, IQ, skill, toughness, and he's definitely a player that's not afraid," Nash told reporters. "He's willing to step up and make plays in big moments, in big situations. He's been there before, so I think he adds a tremendous amount to our group."

Dragic has enjoyed a solid 14-year career in the Association. He was the league's Most Improved Player and an All-NBA third-team selection in 2013-14. Four years later, Dragic earned his first career All-Star nod.

The Slovenian was also the Miami Heat's second-leading scorer during their 2020 Finals run.