Dallas – At the Mavericks’ preseason media day, veteran guard Kyrie Irving announced that he is fully cleared to play after a torn ACL in his left knee sidelined him for 19 months. The 34‑year‑old said the injury, which occurred on March 3, 2025, turned out to be “probably the best thing that happened to me,” because it gave him time for personal reflection.
Confidence and readiness
“I’m ready to go out there and kick some butt,” Irving told reporters. He acknowledged that critics will question his performance, but added that he possesses “the confidence of a champion.” Irving likened his return to “riding a bike,” emphasizing that his health is back to where it should be.
Team leadership and personal growth
Irving said the long layoff allowed him to consider his role not only as a player but also as a man. He wants to be a better leader, communicator, and more emotionally open, noting that at 34 he is “going on year 16” of his career and wants to act with the maturity his age demands.
Support from new leadership
New Mavericks president Masai Ujiri echoed Irving’s optimism, stating, “In terms of health, he’s right there. You hope he plays games and he gets right back into it.” Ujiri, who was hired in early May, also praised the upcoming coaching staff.
Dusty May, hired in late June as head coach, became the first coach to jump directly from a college program to an NBA head‑coaching job since John Beilein in 2019. May, who guided Michigan to last season’s NCAA title, said of Irving, “Kyrie has seen and done as much as just about anyone in the association. I would expect that I’m only going to coach him when I’m able to add value.”
Rookie partnership
The Mavericks will also feature rookie Cooper Flagg, last season’s unanimous rookie of the year. Irving expressed excitement about playing alongside the young talent: “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to grow with him. High‑level basketball players, no matter the age – you put us out there, we’re going to win some ballgames.” Flagg responded, “Having somebody like that out there on the court with you at all times is going to be amazing. The time we’ve been able to spend in the summer on the court together has been good for both of us to kind of build that connection.”
Roster moves and schedule
Dallas also announced the re‑signing of veteran forward Dwight Powell, who has been with the club since December 2014. The Mavericks will open preseason with two games against the Houston Rockets in Macau, China, beginning Oct. 9, and start the regular season on Oct. 21 at Houston, with a home opener on Oct. 24 against the Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs.
After a 26‑56 record last season – the franchise’s worst in eight years – the team is poised for a fresh start under new ownership, new coaching, and a healthy Irving ready to lead the charge.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
