It’s a rare sight in the game to see a whole arena cheering after an injury, that too to one of their own. But that’s exactly what happened during the Mavs vs Kings game. The whole of the American Airlines Center stood up and cheered as Kyrie Irving limped. But that was a celebration of his bravery. The guard returned to the court on one leg to shoot his free throws, giving flashbacks of Kobe Bryant.

When the camera panned to the different sections of the crowd, the pain mixed with pride was written all over their faces. Some were even on the verge of tears, witnessing one of the greats showing what the game is all about — heart! And Kyrie has a lot of that. After accurately swishing both of the free throws, Kyrie headed to the locker room not to return again due to his season-ending ACL injury. Kobe Bryant also had a similar misfortune with a torn Achilles. So, it’s only fitting that Kyrie Irving looks back to his mentor for strength, using that inspiration to motivate the fans.

Taking to social media earlier today, the Mavs guard posted a positive message. “May you always remember to enjoy the road, especially when it’s a hard one. Black Mamba @kobebryant,” the message on X read. The emotional yet uplifting words are exactly what Dallas needs at this wicked hour.

They Mavs fanbase was forced to part ways with Luka Doncic last month. Before they could accept Anthony Davis in his place, the 31-year-old registered his name on the franchise’s injury list. Unfortunately, a left adductor strain during his debut game against the Rockets sidelined him for nearly a month. As if that weren’t enough, now their media rights are also gone.

Mavericks face more setbacks after Kyrie Irving’s departure

NBA reporter Grant Afseth broke the news, “ABC will no longer televise the March 16 matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and Dallas Mavericks. Instead, ABC will broadcast the Orlando Magic versus Cleveland Cavaliers matchup, with an adjusted start time to 1 p.m. EST.” With neither the Mavericks nor the Sixers having their star players on the court, it’s understandable that the media outlet would adjust its programming to ensure better viewership. But this isn’t the end of the Mavs’ miseries.

After the announcement of Kyrie Irving’s season-ending injury, many began to argue that Anthony Davis should also take the season to heal instead of rushing back onto the court. With enough names already on the injury list, including Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, critics suggested that the Mavs should focus on preparing for the next season with a fully healthy squad, since this season will clearly be slipping away. Even Klay Thompson’s future remains uncertain. And now, there’s another shocker.

Alex Jensen, the franchise’s assistant coach, has left to take on the role of head coach for the Utah Jazz. The 48-year-old had previously worked as an assistant coach with the franchise before joining the Mavs in 2023. Now, he’s returning to Utah to take on the role of head coach, bringing with him valuable experience gained from working under various coaches in the league.

The team had released Craig Smith from his duties last month and has now welcomed Jensen in his place. With a 15-47 record, the team sits at the bottom of the West, making Jensen’s task of turning things around a tough one. While he embarks on a new chapter, it seems that Mavericks fans may already have considered their chapter over. At this point, hope is probably the only thing keeping them from completely giving up.