Kyrie Irving is Team Australia? NBA star spills tea on paperwork to change nationality
Kyrie Irving shares an update on his plans to represent the Australian Boomers instead of Team USA at the 2028 LA Olympics.
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Kyrie Irving says he is "in the process" of transitioning to Australia Boomers
After being snubbed from Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Kyrie Irving decided that maybe it was time for him to switch alliances. While talking to The Athletic last October, Irving signaled his interest in playing for the country he was born in—Australia. Recently, the 32-year-old gave an update on his future plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
After winning the All-Star tournament, the Mavericks’ guard was asked about his intention to represent the Australian Boomers instead of Team USA in the next Olympics. In response, the Ankletaker revealed that he is currently “in the process” of making the shift.
Man, we’re in the process of that right now, just trying to figure out the best route for me to be eligible, there’s a lot of paperwork involved. Obviously, USA still has a decision to make, but for me, I’m just trying to do what’s best. Honestly, if I can be an Aussie at one point in my career and play for the Australian team, that would be great.
Kyrie Irving expressed
Kyrie Irving on representing Australia in the Olympics:
— Point Four (@pointfour__) February 17, 2025
"We're in the process of that right now … There's a lot of paperwork to be filled out … If I can play for the Australian team, that would be great." pic.twitter.com/H1P3uIhqRA
This desire to play for the Aussies is understandable, considering that Kyrie holds Australian citizenship via jus soli rights. His family returned to the United States when Uncle Drew was only two years old, earning him dual citizenship status.
Despite having a wonderful run with the Mavericks last year, fans were surprised that the Team USA gave him the cold shoulders. Following the exclusion, Kyrie laid out his plan B during an interview with The Athletics’ Sam Amick, saying that he “would love to entertain playing for Team Australia“. However, there a catch. He will have to get a nod from both Team USA and FIBA, given Kyrie’s history of repping USA in international competitions.
Stephen A. Smith’s reaction to Kyrie Irving’s initial All-Star snub
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith was in fumes when he learned that the former Cleveland champ was left out of this year’s All-Star selections. This prompted the analyst and speaker to go on a lengthy rant, defending Kyrie Irving‘s legacy and stature as a player, dubbing him “a showstopper”.
Another person we need to mention is Kyrie Irving… Kyrie Irving is a show-stopper. If ever there was a person made for All-Star weekend, it’s Kyrie Irving… We got to look at what Kyrie Irving brings to the table and understand his greatness.
Stephen A. Smith on Kyrie Irving
However, Irving didn’t stay out of the All-Star festivities for long. He was later named as an injury replacement for his teammate Anthony Davis, who was unable to participate due to an adductor strain. Playing for Shaq’s OGs in the new tournament-style format for the 2025 All-Star Game, Irving tallied 7 points, 3 rebounds, dished out 2 assists, and recorded 2 steals to clench the All-Star Game title.
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Prikshit Malik
(15 Articles Published)