Nash Tries to Resign From 76ers, but Katz Wants Him to Remain

Philadelphia 76er General Manager John Nash resigned Thursday to “pursue other opportunities,” but club owner Harold Katz has refused to accept the resignation in hopes Nash will change his mind.

Nash, who became general manager in June 1986, said he told Katz of his intention after the last regular-season game.

“He expressed his surprise and disappointment at this development, and at his request I agreed not to make a public announcement that might cause reason for distraction during our playoff drive,” Nash said.

Nash, 43, said he regretted that his resignation became public while the 76ers remain in the playoffs. The 76ers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the NBA playoffs and trail the Chicago Bulls, 2-0, in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

In a written statement, Nash said, “Let me emphasize that this is a personal decision that surprised even members of my own family.”

Katz said he has refused to accept the resignation because “I wanted to give him time to reconsider.

“I think he wants to stay. I want him back,” Katz said. “I know that he’s emotional. I know that he’s made it public, but I think he would like to take it back.”

Katz said he has not considered a successor.