It was first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania that Dallas Mavericks All-Star guard Kyrie Irving suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during last night’s game against the Sacramento Kings. A heartbreaking blow not only for Dallas but for the NBA as a whole. Irving is a world-class player and one of the most popular figures in the league.
VIDEO
An emotional Irving collapsed to the floor in considerable pain. Teammate Anthony Davis and an assistant coach helped him back to the free-throw line, where the Duke product was visibly shaken. Before taking his second free throw, he thanked God as he walked off to MVP chants from the Dallas fans.
The outpouring of support was immediate, with former teammates like Kevin Love expressing their well wishes.
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins addressed concerns about Irving’s recovery timeline, sharing his own experience recovering from an ACL injury in six months and praising Irving’s mental toughness as a former teammate.
“I tore my ACL and I was back in six months,” Perkins said on First Take. “The doctors that the league has and the technology that you have—yes, I understand it’s an ACL, but Kyrie will be back. He’s one of the most mentally tough guys we’ve ever been around.”
Former teammate Luka Doncic also shared his love for Irving as he embarks on his rehab journey.
Luka Doncic with a message to Kyrie Irving on his IG story:
“You will come back stronger mi hermano!❤️” pic.twitter.com/Q9EHMMHqtE
— MFFL NATION (@NationMffl) March 4, 2025
Irving finished the season averaging 24 points, five rebounds, four assists, and one steal in 50 games. His determination and resilience have defined his career, and his comeback journey will only add to the legacy of the player he is today.
Discover more from Baller Alert
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.