In the recent matchup, Kyrie Irving and the Dallas Mavericks faced a challenging defeat against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The game unfolded with intense energy right from the start, featuring both teams trading buckets and exchanging leads 25 times. Amidst the thrill, Max Strus topped the action with 4 threes in 67 seconds and a game-winning shot from 59 feet. While Strus gave fans plenty to cheer about, luckily, they had more.
A significant moment of the game was the return of Kyrie Irving, as commemorated through the in-game tribute. So, post-game, when questioned about his sentiments regarding the Cavaliers, particularly the iconic 2016 run alongside LeBron James, Kyrie expressed heartfelt emotions. “Grateful” for the journey and the championship, Kyrie made it clear to Cavs fans that he genuinely cherished those moments wholeheartedly.
Kyrie Irving on the 2016 championship banner: "Every time I come into this building, I look up at that banner, and it just brings me back to all those emotions. And I'm just grateful for my time here, and I really want to get that across to the Cavs fans, Cavs organization."
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) February 28, 2024
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Reflecting on his return to the arena where he began his career, Kyrie Irving fondly recalled the love and support he received from the city of Ohio. Further, he claimed the championship banner hanging in the arena as the pinnacle moment. However, in a gesture of goodwill, he extended his best wishes to the future players who may someday bring another championship trophy to the franchise.
After the game, Kyrie took to X to reiterate his sentiments, affectionately referring to the city as “Believeland.”
It will always be Love from me and my Tribe, Cleveland aka Believeland. No one will ever be able to take away our banner we won together.
All for one, one for all. What a time. 💍Chief Hélà
🤞🏾🪶♾❤️— Chief Hélà 🤞🏾 (@KyrieIrving) February 28, 2024
Kyrie, alongside LeBron James, played a monumental role in delivering Cleveland its first-ever NBA championship in 2016. Cherried by James’ iconic chase-down block and Kyrie’s clutch three-pointer over the greatest shooter in NBA history, it remains one of the most celebrated moments in NBA Finals history.
Kyrie Irving had a unique welcome in Cleveland
While the Cavaliers may eventually find a way to secure another championship in the future, the magic of 2016 remains irreplaceable. Despite Kyrie’s departure leaving an irreplaceable void with his exit, the fans continue to hold immense love for Irving, appreciating everything he contributed to the franchise.
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In a heartfelt gesture during the first quarter, Kyrie’s photo was adorned on the jumbotron for a warm welcome in his former home. As his name echoed through the arena, Kyrie graciously acknowledged the cheers, signaling heart signs to the ecstatic crowd.
Kyrie is still loved in Cleveland ❤️
(🎥 @H_Grove ) pic.twitter.com/hxMAMhS2kR
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 28, 2024
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Kyrie Irving spent his first 6 NBA seasons with the Cavs, having joined them as the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. Even amid the team’s restructuring in the post-LeBron era, Kyrie, alongside players like Tristan Thompson, Anderson Varejao, and Dion Waiters, managed to captivate fans with dazzling plays, bringing them to their feet and etching unforgettable moments in the team’s history.