Basketball

Mavs’ Kyrie Irving appreciative of LeBron James’ compliments

In the pre-match conference on the eve of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving wasn’t expecting that the first question would be about LeBron James praising him in a recent podcast rather than about the Boston Celtics.

James said Irving is the most gifted player in the NBA and has played a key role in taking the Mavericks to the NBA finals. 

Meanwhile, James observed Irving from close quarters while playing with him for the Cleveland Cavaliers. James and Irving played three seasons together with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2014 to ’17 season. The duo made it to three consecutive Finals and won the title in 2016, with Irving scoring the title-clinching 3-pointer in Game 7 to beat the Golden State Warriors.

“Is that the first question?” Irving said when asked about James’ recent podcast comments stating he is “f—ing mad” to not be teaming up with the eight-time All-Star any longer. “Oh, God, I love it. Got to love this, man.”

It has been seven seasons since James and Irving played together. However, Irving reckons his relationship with the veteran has gone from strength to strength in the last few years.

“Obviously, I’m in a different age, different place in my life. So is he. I think we both have been able to mature and really appreciate what we got a chance to accomplish,” Irving said. “I think there were some things that got in the way of our relationship when I was a little bit younger. Now that I’m able to vocalize how I feel as a man, be comfortable in it, stand on my square, my beliefs, where I’m coming from, I feel like our relationship’s different because of that now.”

Irving revealed he misses the old times that he spent with James at the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“Definitely miss him,” Irving said. “Man, when he says comments like that, I think back to us having those moments where we’re down in a series, up in a series, we’re really demanding greatness from each other. Off the court, our families meshing well. … I definitely think about those times.”

Irving is averaging 22.8 points in the NBA playoffs this season. The first game of the NBA finals will be played on Thursday.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

The inaugural champions Jaipur Pink Panthers will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in… Read More

November 21, 2024

Robert Lewandowski recalls playing under ‘difficult’ Pep Guardiola; explains how ex-Barcelona coach changed

Barcelona’s striker Robert Lewandowski recalled how Pep Guardiola was a difficult coach to play under… Read More

November 21, 2024

Ayush Chikkara aspires to be a ‘regular’ in Mumbai City FC’s team, says doesn’t want to take any external pressure

Mumbai City FC forward Ayush Chikkara wants to find a regular place in Petr Kratky’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Carlos Alcaraz lauds Rafael Nadal’s legacy after retirement

World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz hailed Rafael Nadal’s legacy after the veteran Spaniard retired from the… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jamshedpur FC’s defender Ashutosh Mehta credits ‘100% professional’ Khalid Jamil for having a big impact in his life

Jamshedpur FC full-back Ashutosh Mehta has given credit to head coach Khalid Jamil for playing… Read More

November 21, 2024

Lakers star LeBron James says he’s taking a break from social media

Los Angeles Lakers’s superstar LeBron James has revealed he is taking a break from social… Read More

November 21, 2024