Big Nate's Bar-B-Que is owned by retired American basquetball player Nathaniel "Nate the Great" Thurmond.... The pork ribs, beef brisket, and Memphis pork combo is the big favorite among YELP reviewers. You need to get lucky to see Big Nate Thurmond himself. Lots of folks swear by the sides like the greens and beans and the sweet potato pie.