Kyrie Irving is special. Despite not playing a lot this season, he has shown the league why he is the premier point guard in the league. And in the play-in tournament, he put the league on notice with a spectacular performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers despite fasting for Ramadan.
Irving put in a stunning performance as the Brooklyn Nets secured the seventh seed with a 115-108 victory. He scored 34 points and dished out 12 assists against his former team. This win secured the Nets’ spot in the playoffs and they will face the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. Kyrie will continue to fast during this holy month but he does not feel like he’s alone in this.
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Kyrie will continue to fast during this holy month but he does not feel like he’s alone in this.
Brooklyn Nets superstar Kyrie Irving says he is not alone in this journey
After the game, Kyrie addressed how he was able to perform despite having very little nutrition in his body. He says, “It’s a journey we got and I’m not alone in this. I have brothers and sisters all around the world that are fasting with me. We hold our prayers and our meditations very sacred.”
“And when you come out here, I mean guys aside me, guys aside you, guys aside all of us so, I’m walking with faith and that’s all that matters. And when I get a chance to do this in this type of arena and showcase my talent strictly from God, I’m humble.”
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The NBA features some of the best athletes in the world. Playing a game, especially a playoff game requires a lot of energy. There have been instances in the past where players have just been exhausted and unable to continue. And to do all this while fasting is incredible. This shows Irving’s dedication to the game and willingness to play under extreme circumstances.
The Nets will have their task cut out in the first round, as they play a formidable Celtics team. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum have been spectacular all season long and the Celtics have one of the best defenses in the league.
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But the Nets will feel confident with Irving and Durant in their ranks. They have the two of the best half-court creators in the game and when the game slows down in the playoffs, they will be at their best.