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via Imago

via Imago

We all know how a bitter breakup can leave lasting scars, and Kyrie Irving‘s relationship with the Celtics was no different. Over the course of six years, it only turned toxic, with fans turning on him, greeting him at TD Garden with boos so harsh that could shake anyone’s confidence. Kyrie couldn’t manage to win a single game in that building, no matter who he played for. But now, the curse has been lifted and with it, Kyrie has finally broken his silence on the matter.

On Wednesday, the Mavericks sort of avenged their NBA Finals defeat to the Celtics with a 127-120 win. And guess what? It was Mr. Overtime’s first-ever victory at TD Garden, in four years. Naturally, it became a hot topic during the post-game press conference. When asked about ending the streak, the veteran guard said, “To be honest with y’all, we’re just trying to keep it as another game.”

The big man added, “But I’ll be lying to you guys if I say I’m not aware of the record I have in this building since 2020 or 2021. It’s more of a motivation factor for me than anything now, because they’re the best of the best.” The joy is even sweeter, as Boston is the reigning champion, and defeating them felt like the cherry on top.

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The only disadvantage for Kyrie was that the Celtics knew his game inside and out, and did everything they could to stop him, but it only made him better. “I’ve said it in the past, but I feel like they feel, and we both feel like they know my game well enough, sending a lot of double teams at me, a lot of different reads that they force me in. But it only makes me better,” he added. And that wasn’t all. Kyrie also delivered a bold challenge to Jayson Tatum and the Celtics, saying, “This is what competitive basketball, about competitive sports, is just continuing to get better, and going against the best of the best, and coming out with the W, doing whatever it takes to win.”

The last time Kyrie won in Boston was with the Nets during the 2021 Playoffs’ first-round Game 4. A memory that he would rather erase. After the win, he stomped on the team’s center court logo in celebration and the move only fueled the fans’ fury. But this time, he was careful not to make any such mistakes. Kyrie’s mature side highlights his leadership qualities. This is something he’ll need to embrace with the Mavericks, after the departure of his closest on-court partner, Luka Doncic. And looks like the 32-year-old is leading in that direction.

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Kyrie Irving’s message to his teammates shows that he’s ready to move on

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Did Kyrie Irving finally silence the Boston boos, or is the rivalry just heating up?

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After Kyrie Irving’s arrival to the Mavs, he quickly formed a close-knit bond with the Slovenian star. Their on-court chemistry was spectacular and caught everyone’s attention last season. But now, the team’s decision to send Luka to the Lakers shattered their dream of winning a championship together. However, Kyrie hasn’t given up. He decided to move forward taking the team’s full responsibility on his shoulders. And what tip did he give before the Saturday clash?

via Imago

Before stepping onto the court on Saturday against the Rockets, Kyrie was spotted telling the team, “Let’s move forward and enjoy this ride. Together on three, 1.. 2.. 3.. Together.”

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Despite the heartbreak, Kyrie knew he had to step up and lead the team, and that’s exactly what he did. The entire squad recognized the new beginning, with their new teammate, Anthony Davis, also sharing the same sentiment. How this new chapter unfolds for Kyrie and the Mavs will become clear in the coming months.

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Did Kyrie Irving finally silence the Boston boos, or is the rivalry just heating up?

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