Kyrie Irving on LeBron James: “One of the Greatest to Ever Play in the NBA”
Kyrie Irving and LeBron James share one of the most memorable player partnerships in recent NBA history. Their time together on the Cleveland Cavaliers, especially during the 2016 NBA Finals, produced unforgettable moments and a historic championship for the city of Cleveland. Years later, despite some ups and downs in their personal and professional relationship, Irving continues to hold LeBron in the highest regard. In a recent interview, Kyrie called LeBron “one of the greatest to ever play in the NBA,” a statement that reaffirms the respect he has for his former teammate.
Irving and LeBron were teammates from 2014 to 2017. LeBron’s return to Cleveland brought championship hopes back to the franchise, and together with Irving and Kevin Love, the Cavaliers became title contenders. Their most iconic moment came in the 2016 NBA Finals, where the Cavs came back from a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Golden State Warriors. Irving’s clutch three-pointer in Game 7 and LeBron’s famous chase-down block on Andre Iguodala were defining moments in NBA history. That championship not only solidified LeBron’s legacy in Cleveland but also established Irving as a big-time player.
Over the years, Kyrie and LeBron have had a complex relationship. Irving eventually requested a trade from Cleveland in 2017, wanting to lead his own team and step out of LeBron’s shadow. At the time, many saw it as a fracture in their partnership. However, both players have spoken more reflectively in recent years. Kyrie has admitted that he didn’t fully appreciate LeBron’s leadership back then and has since come to understand the responsibilities that come with leading a team. His recent praise of LeBron speaks volumes about their matured relationship and the mutual respect that still exists.
Calling LeBron “one of the greatest” isn’t a controversial take — it’s widely accepted. LeBron’s resume includes four NBA championships, four MVP awards, 19 All-Star selections, and the title of all-time leading scorer in NBA history. His impact goes beyond stats, as he has influenced the game with his combination of size, skill, basketball IQ, and leadership. Kyrie, who has played with and against many of the league’s best, is in a strong position to speak on LeBron’s greatness from firsthand experience.
Irving’s words also show his growth as a player and a person. Once seen as a rebellious star, Kyrie is now more reflective and outspoken about the value of teamwork, leadership, and legacy. His recognition of LeBron’s greatness not only shows respect but also acknowledges the pivotal role LeBron played in his own career.
In the world of basketball, where egos can often cloud judgment, it’s refreshing to see former teammates give each other their flowers. Kyrie Irving’s recent statement about LeBron James isn’t just a headline — it’s a sincere tribute to a teammate who helped him reach the mountaintop. For fans of both players, it’s a reminder of the greatness they shared and the history they made together.
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