As the Dallas Mavericks prepare for a crucial Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves for the Western Conference Finals, an off-court moment between Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving’s wife, Marlene Wilkerson, has their fans in awe. After their 109-108 win against the Wolves, spirits were high as Irving and Doncic walked backstage. Marlene greeted her husband with a kiss and shared an enthusiastic high-five with Luka. “Love is in the air,” as fans get to see the two share a light-hearted moment, especially after a crucial victory.

Doncic and Irving share a special relationship both on and off court and fans adore their special relationship. The moment, which was captured on video, quickly gained traction online. Fans were delighted to see the duo share a light-hearted moment, especially after a pivotal win. Take a look at their reactions.

“Feels like family”

The bond between the two stars has been a focal point for the squad since Irving arrived from the Brooklyn Nets. Both players have shown mutual respect and admiration for each other at every opportunity. Their friendship is loved by Mavs fans and the comments were flooded with the same appreciation. A comment that reflected this popular sentiment said, “I love the vibes from this team. Feels like a family,” referring to the closeness between not just the duo but also Doncic and Marlene.

Kyrie Irving has been in a lot of discussions and speculations about his relationship with teammates in the past. The player himself has discussed several instances from the past where he felt like he wasn’t the best teammate to his peers, including instances with LeBron James from his time in the Cleveland Cavaliers. In light of this, an emotional comment read, “I’m so happy for Kyrie bro has been through the ringer. He finally found a home in Dallas.” Within his first season in Dallas, Irving has found a footing for himself and he seems to be comfortable and satisfied.

One user was so touched by this interaction that they expressed their sentiments while comparing Kyrie to none other than legend Kobe Bryant. The fan reminisced about the bond shared by Kobe with his wife Vanessa and their daughters and hoped to see the same bond reflected in Irving’s relationships. They said, “I always thought and hoped Kyrie would be the next closest thing to Kobe and Vanessa and the girls would always be waiting in the tunnel after every home game at staples center no better person to model your game and habits after.” The player is a role model for many.

Like many others, one comment pointed out their unmatched chemistry and how it’s been integral to the team this year. They said, “The chemistry is amazing and so crucial.”

The duo’s sensational play this season has carried their team to the Finals. They’ve achieved amazing chemistry within one season and it is reflected in their on-court dynamic.

Luka Doncic and Irving; the Dallas duo

In March last year, Irving scored 40 points (15-of-22 shooting from the field including 6-of-8 from beyond the arc) in a match where Dallas won 133–126 against the Philadelphia 76ers. In the same game,  Luka scored 42 points, marking the first time in Dallas franchise history that two players scored 40 points in the same game.

According to GiveMeSport’s report dated April, the power duo contributed 64.5 points with 23.0 rebounds and 13.9 assists per game in 51 games together. They averaged a field goal percentage of 49.8 and a three-pointer percentage of 38.3. The Mavs averaged an offense rating of 110.9 this season, the second-highest in the league in the playoff season.

But their fight is far from over. Even though they hold a 2-0 lead over Minnesota right now, both games have been very close. They won by 3 points in Game 1 and only 1 point in Game 2. This is a crucial moment for both teams and the Wolves can very well turn the game in their favour.

As fans see the Luka Doncic and Irving duo strengthen with each game; there is a lot left to be uncovered. This is only their first season together. Only the test of time will prove the power of their chemistry both on and off court. They remain to be a vital tool for their team as the Western Conference Finals progress. Watch their explosive gameplay tonight at 8:00 pm EST.