On Tuesday afternoon, Kyrie Irving spoke to the media for the first time as a member of the Mavericks.
Irving told reporters that he’s happy to be in a place where he feels wanted. He then said that he felt disrespected during his time in Brooklyn.
“I just know I want to be in a place where I’m celebrated and not just tolerated or dealt in a way where I don’t feel respected,” Irving said. “There were times throughout this process in Brooklyn where I felt very disrespected
When asked what the Nets did to him that was disrespectful, Irving said he’ll provide details about it at another time.
Irving added that he wants to change the narrative around him.
It was reported last week that Irving discussed a long-term contract with the Nets. His camp was “vehemently against” the offer they received. That eventually led to him requesting a trade.
Now that Irving is on the Mavericks, it’ll be interesting to see how he performs in a new environment.
Either the Mavericks found a co-star for Luka Doncic, or this move will blow up in their face.