Kyrie Irving Reveals He Almost Punched Boston Celtics Star
Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving recently revealed he almost punched Boston Celtics star Payton Pritchard. Here’s what you need to know about Irving’s recent revelation on Pritchard.
Kyrie Irving Almost Punched Payton Pritchard
Kyrie Irving is a veteran point guard who seems to be more settled in Dallas, while Pritchard is an up-and-coming point guard who serves as a reserve guard in Boston. Irving, now 33, recently revealed he almost punched Pritchard, now 27, during the 2024 NBA Finals.
During a livestream with Celtics swingman Jaylen Brown, Irving explained to Brown, 28, that tensions between him and Pritchard nearly boiled over in 2024. Irving said, “We were going to halftime. I ain’t gonna lie to you, I thought about swinging. One time, just to see where he was at. I thought about swinging one time … He would not touch. I thought about swinging half-court shot that happens two times.”
Irving then reminisced on his early years with the Celtics. Irving recalled, “It was so exciting. My dad had gone to school right up the street. My mom graduated from [Boston University] as well … So, first getting there, the excitement, being able to put on the Boston Celtics uniform, that was crazy.”
Irving vs. Pritchard
A Kyrie Irving vs. Payton Pritchard debate can be described as an afterthought, but it’s a rather interesting food for thought. Irving, Jaylen Brown, and a young Jayson Tatum enjoyed some postseason success as a trio, but Irving was reportedly tired of his surroundings and joined the Brooklyn Nets in free agency to reunite with good friends Kevin Durant and DeAndre Jordan.
Pritchard’s performance shifted the momentum of the 2024 NBA Finals and added pressure on Irving. Pritchard energized the Celtics’ home crowd with two consecutive half-court shots, but angered Irving. No altercation occurred, but this highlighted Irving’s emotions and how Irving might not have gotten along with younger players like Pritchard.
Final Thoughts
Kyrie Irving’s relationship with the Boston Celtics remains complicated. Irving didn’t leave Boston on good terms, but his time in Dallas has resulted in teammates and coaches, including Luka Doncic and Jason Kidd, praising his leadership and emotional growth. Hopefully, Irving continues to fight his internal battles.
