Kyrie Irving has spent the last two years playing alongside Luka Dončić in the backcourt for the Dallas Mavericks, and the two had formed a close bond. Their families even became friends during their time together. However, after the trade that separated them, the two now find themselves competing against each other on the court.
Irving admitted that it felt awkward to face off against his former teammate, especially considering their close friendship. “It was awkward, but at the same time, it was fun. We had a chance to feel like we were back on the practice court, attacking each other. It was a good moment for reflection,” said Irving after the Mavericks lost to the Lakers 107-99 on Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena.
Despite the awkwardness, Irving found it enjoyable to see Dončić perform. “Seeing the crowd cheer him on and watching him make some of those tough shots, the ones I’ve seen him make thousands of times, probably made it more awkward for him. But it was fun. It was fun to compete,” he added.
Kyrie Irving’s Big Performance and Luka Dončić’s Triple-Double
Irving had an outstanding game, finishing with a game-high 35 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks. He shot 12 of 27 from the field and made five of 11 three-pointers in 40 minutes.
On the other hand, Dončić recorded a triple-double, tallying 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists, along with three steals and two blocks. However, he struggled with his shooting, making only six of 17 attempts, including just one of seven from beyond the arc. He also picked up a technical foul early in the first quarter. Despite the rough night for Dončić, the Mavericks still showed mutual respect and shared hugs after the game.
The Emotional Impact of Facing Former Teammates
The game was particularly emotional for Dončić, as it was the first time he faced off against the team he had spent the first six and a half years of his career with. “It was strange, but he’s a competitive guy, just like us, so it was fun to battle,” said Mavericks forward Klay Thompson. “I know we’ll see him again at least once or maybe twice.”
Dončić shared how his teammates supported him emotionally after the trade, recognizing the difficulty of playing against his former team. “I saw how Dorian (Finney-Smith) was like, ‘We got your back,’ and that was amazing,” Dončić said. “They tried to push me.”
Despite his less-than-perfect performance, Dončić was focused on helping the team win and proving himself. “I know I didn’t play great, but we won, and I’m just trying to prove that to the world.”
Coach Jason Kidd on Dončić’s Impact
Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd acknowledged Dončić’s status as one of the best players in the world, emphasizing how much attention the game had drawn. “There’s a lot of attention on this game, but the train keeps moving,” Kidd said before the game. “He’s one of the best players in the world, and the Lakers are lucky to have him.”
Kidd also commented on Dončić’s recent emotional state and how the trade might have affected him. “It’s good to see him smiling these days. The business side of basketball can be shocking, but we have to keep moving forward,” Kidd added.
Irving also reflected on the bond he and Dončić had built, particularly during preseason games in Abu Dhabi and Madrid. “When you’re on the road and get to know someone and their family, it’s special,” Irving said. “Madrid was special because that’s where Luka played. I had the chance to meet some of his friends and support group, and I think that just carried over into this season.”
As the Mavericks face off against Dončić’s Lakers, the mutual respect between the two former teammates is evident, despite the competitive nature of the game.
