By Mathieu S. | NBA Editor
While he is making the Mavericks happy today, Kyrie Irving would not have said no to being present for the Paris Olympic Games. He wasn’t chosen, and he found it quite strange as he explained in a recent interview.
Considered one of the best in his position a few years ago, Kyrie Irving is no longer unanimous today. Between injuries and numerous stories off the field, it is clear that the leader is no longer as indisputable as in the past. It’s been a lot better since he’s been in Dallas, but there’s still work to do.
The proof is that Team USA did not choose him to compete in the Paris Olympic Games with LeBron James and the other stars. Irving was nevertheless available and in good health, but the selection preferred other players NBA for this competition. A difficult choice for the former Cavaliers, especially when we know his history with Team USA.
Kyrie Irving bitter after his absence from the Olympics
Irving is obviously not the only one, like Jaylen Brown for example, but it remains difficult to digest for the leader. In a recent interview with The Athletic, this is what he said:
Kyrie Irving : “I wouldn’t say it was hurtful not to be able to take a chance, but it was pretty weird not having the opportunity to compete and come together as a group. Because Team USA is not just 12 or 15 guys. »
“I was playing with Team USA when I was just 17, 18 years old. I won three gold medals. I won when I was 18, when I was 22, and another when I was 24. There’s a bit of pride in that, and I have a history with this team. There is such a group that you can play with because we are talking about the best in the world. It’s not every day you get to face players of this caliber. »
Irving didn’t even have the opportunity to compete for a spot on the roster, for example in place of Tyrese Haliburton. We can understand his disappointment, even if there is no jealousy.
Irving : “I spoke with Grant Hill several times during the season, but I think it was more or less a surprise that I wanted to play. The fact that I wanted and being committed. I’m speaking from a health point of view to be clear. It wasn’t jealousy. I’m happy for the Team USA guys at the end of the day. »
Kyrie Irving would have liked to have a chance with Team USA this summer, but Grant Hill and other officials decided otherwise. A presence in 2028? The Mavericks leader is definitely not closing the door.
