On Saturday night, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116 to reach the Western Conference Finals for the second time in the past three seasons.
Kyrie Irving, in his second year with the Mavs, finished with 22 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists on 9/23 field goal percentage and 4/10 three-point shooting percentage in 42 minutes of play.
After the game, Irving talked About superstar teammate Luka Doncic.
Irving: “Coming to Dallas, I was dealing with a lot. Mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and they accepted me with open arms. No journey is perfect. Coming into this environment, I didn't know how we were going to work.''On the court, of course, but off the court, it was ultimately about opening up to him. I knew I could do it. I just sat back and marveled at his talent and his ability to step outside of his comfort zone. Dad, I enjoy watching him grow as a person. First and foremost, basketball is important. We all know his skills, numbers, etc. I want to be a teammate and a brother next door. Help him grow as a person and help him achieve what he wants to achieve. ”
That's just love. Rukai forever🥹@att // #OneForDallas #MFFL pic.twitter.com/16Bmiuylrz
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) May 19, 2024
The Mavs will face Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves in the conference finals.
Game 1 of the series will be played Wednesday night at Target Center in Minnesota.
The team that wins this series will advance to the NBA Finals, where they will face either the Boston Celtics or Indiana Pacers.
