The Brooklyn Nets have officially become a page turned as Kyrie Irving is already a Dallas Mavericks player.
Irving’s trade was closed on Tuesday and, with that, he was presented as the new reinforcement of the Texan team.
His unexpected request to leave the New York team, however, remains a source of curiosity. And at first, it was all about respect.
“I want to be in places where I’m not just tolerated, but recognised. I didn’t feel respected in Brooklyn, first of all.” Irving said.
“There were some moments when they didn’t respect my talent. I work really hard, but nobody talks about my work ethic.
“People only talked about what he did off the court and he wanted to change that narrative. In Dallas, I can focus on what I can control.” Irving added.
Irving’s passage through the Nets was really troubled. He was twice removed for a considerable period by the team, after all, for off-court reasons.
First, the point guard did not play because he was not immunised against the COVID-19.
Already at the beginning of this season, the star was “retired” because of a controversy involving anti- Semitism on social media.
“I only wish the best for Brooklyn. I left the team fourth in the East, and more than that, I did what they expected me to do. I took care of my teammates and was an incredibly selfless leader.” Irving said.
“I know people are going to judge me and say negative things, but I did the right things for myself. At the end of the day, this is basketball. I want it to be fun above all else,” he added.
Irving’s trade request wasn’t a complete surprise. The decision came shortly after talks for an extension of the player’s contract with the Nets did not move forward.
He wants a bond, in short, of US$200 million for four years. The star does not confirm the version, but his revolt with the leak of information is a sign in that direction.
