“I had a rough time there…” Kyrie Irving on ugly past with Celtics before facing them in NBA Finals 2024

Kyrie Irving would be facing his former team, the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals.

“I had a rough time there…” Kyrie Irving on ugly past with Celtics before facing them in NBA Finals 2024

Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving played a crucial role in the Dallas Mavericks’ Game 5 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, as they secured their spot in the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Irving, a former Celtic, reflected on his past experiences with the team, as he stated that he has moved forward and healthily unpacked his emotions.

Kyrie Irving acknowledged his difficult time in Boston, where he dealt with personal struggles, which included a family death and off-court issues. However, he expressed his respect for the Celtics’ roster and excitement to face them in the NBA Finals. He emphasized his readiness to “have fun” with his teammates and compete against a “formidable opponent.”

YouTube video
I am at a place in my life where I don't consider those past moments. I was able to unpack them in a healthy way, move forward as a person. I had a rough time there when I was in Boston, just dealing with a death in my family and off-court stuff I wasn't ready to handle.
Kyrie Irving said via SportsCenter

Throughout the playoffs, Irving has averaged 22.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, where he showcased his impact on the court. This marks Irving’s fourth NBA Finals appearance, having previously won a title with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.

FS Video

Irving’s performance has ended a seven-year Finals drought in his career, and he is now set to face his former team in the NBA Finals. With his newfound mental clarity and on-court prowess, Irving is ready to take on the C’s and contribute to the Mavericks’ championship aspirations.

Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic and Mavericks dominate Timberwolves, advance to NBA Finals

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 126-103 in Game 5, and clinched a 4-1 series victory and advanced to the NBA Finals. Luka Doncic led the charge, as he scored 12 of the Mavericks’ first 16 points and finished the first quarter with 20 points. He was unstoppable, making 8 of his first 9 shots.

Doncic and Kyrie Irving combined for 44 points in the first half, as they dominated the Timberwolves. The Mavericks shot 61% from the field and 60% from three-point range, taking a 69-40 halftime advantage. Doncic added 6 rebounds and 3 assists, while Irving contributed 3 assists.

The Mavericks maintained their lead in the second half, with Doncic and Irving pacing the team. Both players reached 36 points on the night, and the Mavericks cruised to a 23-point victory, advancing to the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. 

In case you missed it: