Kyrie Irving has entered Dallas Mavericks training camp without restrictions after recovering from the torn ACL in his left knee that kept him out for the entire 2025-26 season.
Irving suffered the injury in March 2025, but he now views the lengthy recovery period as an important point in his career.
During media day, the veteran guard described the injury as “probably the best thing that happened to me” because it gave him an opportunity to think about basketball and his personal growth.
“On where I want to be as a player and most importantly where do I want to be as a man,” he said.
“How can people look to me to be a better leader, a better communicator, be more emotional, vulnerable. And also taking the approach of acting like my age finally. Being 34 years old, I’m going on year 16.
“Been through a lot, been through a lot of ups and downs as a person. But I think me as a competitor out there, you never have to worry about me falling short of (putting) my best foot forward out there.”
Irving returns to a Mavericks organization that looks considerably different from the one he last played for.
Cooper Flagg has emerged as the franchise cornerstone, Dusty May has replaced Jason Kidd as head coach, and Masai Ujiri is now serving as team president.
Dallas also made major roster changes after finishing last season with a 26-56 record. Irving is hoping his return can help the Mavericks compete for a playoff spot again.
“I’m ready to go out there and kick some butt,” he said.
“I know that naysayers or some of the questions around where I’m going to be are going to be inevitable. But for me, I have the confidence of a champion. … This is a what-have-you-done-for-me-lately type of league, and everybody wants to see it up close.
“So, I’m looking forward to being able to lace up my shoes and being on the court with my teammates and show everybody what I got again. It’s just like riding a bike.”
