Kyrie Irving’s ACL tear has shaken the basketball world, including Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant, who struggled to hold back his emotions when discussing the Dallas Mavericks point guard.
Durant and Irving played together for four seasons with the Brooklyn Nets from 2019 to 2023 before landing on their current teams.
Kevin Durant Gets Emotional When Asked About Kyrie Irving’s Injury
On a night when Durant led the Suns to a 119-117 comeback win over the Los Angeles Clippers after trailing by 23 points, the forward got emotional. During the postgame press conference, Durant was asked about his former teammate’s ACL injury.
In the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings, Irving went down hard after attempting a layup. The 2016 NBA champion stayed on the floor for several minutes in visible pain. He shot his free throws before exiting the game, but a day later, tests confirmed Irving had torn his left ACL, ending his season.
“I feel for my boy,” Durant said. “I know how much he cares about the game, and loves the game, and loves his routine, and enjoys playing for his teammates, the ultimate teammate, the best teammate. Man, he loves the game so much. I’m just, I’m just hurt for him.
Kevin Durant gets emotional while talking about Kyrie’s ACL injury:
"I feel for my boy. I know how much he cares about the game and loves the game”
(🎥 @brendan_mau) pic.twitter.com/dD59uEisSK
— Kyrie Center (@kyriecenterig) March 5, 2025
“But he’s such a strong-minded person, and he’s gonna bounce back and be a Kyrie even better than he was before he got hurt. So, prayers up to him, and wish him a speedy recovery.”
Durant joins a long list of NBA stars and fans wishing Irving a healthy and quick recovery, despite concerns about his age.
Former NBA Champion Predicts Irving Will Return Stronger Than Ever
Durant isn’t the only one confident that Irving will make a strong comeback. Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins shared the same belief during the March 4 broadcast of ESPN’s First Take.
“Yes, I understand it’s an ACL, but Kyrie will be back,” Perkins said, highlighting the medical advancements in the league that will aid the nine-time NBA All-Star’s recovery.
“He will be back stronger, one of the most mentally tough players we’ve ever been around. When it comes to putting in the hard work and approaching the game of basketball, Kyrie will be just fine.”
