Steve Nash has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain in Phoenix through the end of the 2011/12 season, when his contract expires. However, it has long been assumed that upon becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer, the two-time MVP would look to sign with a contender. But a recent Associated Press interview (via ESPN.com) found Nash expressing a desire to stay with the Suns beyond this season.

According to Nash, two things would have to happen for him to re-sign: first, they would have to offer him a substantial contract, as he indicated that he is not willing to take a pay cut to re-sign; second, Nash wants the team to acquire new players and make a move towards playoff contention.

Nash, 38, will make approximately $11.6MM this season, the final year of a two-year, $22MM contract extension he signed in summer 2009.