Sep 28, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) during Cleveland Cavaliers media day at Cleveland Clinic Courts. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
LeBron James, the legendary NBA player, recently expressed mixed emotions about his former partnership with Kyrie Irving during an episode of Mind the Game.
James: “There was nothing on the basketball floor that Kyrie couldn’t do. Sitting here watching it, I’m playing like so f***ing happy and so proud to watch him continue his growth or whatever the case may be. At the same time, I’m so f***ing mad at the same time that I am not his running mate anymore.“
As Irving prepares to play in the NBA Finals as a member of the Dallas Mavericks, James admitted that he is both proud of Irving’s growth and saddened by the fact that they no longer share the court together.
A Tale of Two Superstars
The history between LeBron James and Kyrie Irving is well-documented. During their time together with the Cleveland Cavaliers, they formed one of the most dynamic duos in the league. Their complementary skills and chemistry led to an NBA championship in 2016, a moment remembered in basketball history.
However, their paths diverged when Irving requested a trade in 2017. He wanted to step out of James’ shadow and lead his own team. The trade sent Irving to the Boston Celtics, and later, he found his way to the Mavericks.
Proud and Missing
In recent interviews, LeBron James has been candid about his feelings toward Irving. He called Irving the “wizard” and praised his basketball abilities, emphasizing that there was nothing on the court that Irving couldn’t do. James expressed pride in watching Irving’s growth and success.
Yet, alongside that pride, James also revealed a sense of loss. He misses the partnership they once had—the alley-oops, the clutch shots, and the camaraderie. It’s a sentiment shared by fans who remember the magic they created together.
The Unfulfilled Reunion
Last summer, rumors swirled that Irving wanted James to join him with the Dallas Mavericks. However, those deals never materialized, and now Irving is set to face off against James in the NBA Finals. While James enjoys watching his former teammate flourish, he can’t help but feel a twinge of regret that they’re not on the same team anymore.
In the end, LeBron James remains proud of Kyrie Irving’s journey but can’t shake the longing for their former partnership. As the NBA Finals unfold, fans will witness two superstars—one in a familiar jersey and the other in a new one—competing for the ultimate prize.
For more articles like this click here.
