Throughout his career, Kyrie Irving has had an outspoken personality. In his most recent stunt, Irving refused to speak with the media despite his contractual obligation to do so. The NBA fined the Nets point guard $25,000 for his refusal to participate in team media availability. The NBA also fined the Brooklyn Nets the same amount.
Kyrie Irving posted on Instagram in response to these fines and the whole situation. “I pray we utilize the ‘fine money’ for the marginalized communities in need, especially seeing where our world is present,” Irving said on his Instagram story. “I am here for Peace, Love, and Greatness. So stop distracting me and my team, and appreciate the Art. We move differently over here.”
He also added the jab, “I do not talk to pawns. My attention is worth more,” which has sparked controversy across the league. While some support his message to benefit marginalized communities, many found his comment about pawns unnecessarily disrespectful. For instance, his former teammate in Cleveland, Kevin Love, spoke on Kyrie Irving’s comments.
“I think calling anybody a pawn is a sure sign of disrespect. I understand where Kyrie is coming from in trying to better a lot of people’s lives, but I’m just not a divisive person. So that’s where I stand on that and I love Kyrie. I know he’s changed, but again, I’m just not a divisive person. I think everyone’s got a part to play as long as the intent’s good and it comes from a good place.”
Kyrie Irving will Hopefully Start in Brooklyn Nets Opener
The Brooklyn Nets will play their first preseason game this Sunday against the Washington Wizards. While the organization has not spoken specifically on it, neither has there been any indication that Kyrie Irving won’t play. With that said, we should expect to see the six-time NBA All-Star on the court.
For the regular-season opener, the Nets will play the Golden State Warriors on December 22. Then they will travel to Boston to play Kyrie Irving’s former team.
