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Kyrie Irving: Nets Star Responds to Critics and Says His ‘Art’ on the Court Speaks for Itself

By Jerry Trotta

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 31: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets in action against Ryan Arcidiacono #51 of the Chicago Bulls at Barclays Center on January 31, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Brooklyn Nets defeated the Chicago Bulls 133-118. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 31: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets in action against Ryan Arcidiacono #51 of the Chicago Bulls at Barclays Center on January 31, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Brooklyn Nets defeated the Chicago Bulls 133-118. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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Brooklyn Nets point guard Kyrie Irving responds to his critics.

Through the years, fans have grown increasingly skeptical of Kyrie Irving’s love and overall devotion to basketball, and understandably so. The Brooklyn Nets point guard said publicly in 2018 that he’s aiming to retire in his early-to-mid 30s and almost always seems to create a stir in locker rooms, no matter what team he’s playing for.

Well, amid Irving’s escalated focus on racism and social reform — as well as his outspoken opposition to the NBA restart amid the coronavirus pandemic — this has once again become a topic of conversation.

To nobody’s surprise, the six-time All-Star was quick to slam his critics in an Instagram conversation this week.

During an Instagram Live session with his sister Asia on Sunday, Irving said, “It’s about on the court, look at my resume, look at the classics, look at my art. I created it for going on 10-plus years now. Don’t play with me. Don’t play with what I do on a day in and day out basis to provide and go out there and create.”

After praising his own basketball craft, Irving transitioned into lauding his recent actions off the court, which include producing a TV series on Breonna Taylor, who was wrongfully murdered by Louisville police back in March, and leading peaceful protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death.

“I’m away from my family for seven months out of the year,” he continued. “I’m out there (on the) front lines, activism. I’m out there trying to continue to spread light to Breonna Taylor, Say Her Name, and all our women. Like this is a life that encompasses a lot more than just shooting a damn basketball.”

This clip further proves that Irving is one of the most sensitive players in the NBA, but also one of the most thoughtful. It’s hard to deny that he makes solid points here.

More. 3 Reasons to Be Concerned About Kyrie Irving. light

There’s simply nothing wrong with the 28-year-old superstar letting his motivation to trigger social reform take center stage while he’s recovering from shoulder surgery. It’s not like he has the rest of the 2019-20 season to worry about. Let’s take it easy on Irving until he gives us a reason to lambaste him.