Kyrie Irving had a remarkable performance on Sunday, scoring a season-high 48 points to help the Dallas Mavericks defeat the Houston Rockets 147-136 in overtime and eliminate them from play-in contention. However, it wasn’t just his scoring prowess that caught attention; it was also the special moment he shared with Luka Doncic at the end of the game.
Reflecting on this moment during an interview on Bally Sports Southwest, Irving spoke about the dedication and pressure both he and Doncic carry, noting how their drive for success influences their teammates positively.
Irving mentioned that his impressive 48-point display required everything he had, expressing a mix of exhaustion and energy. Despite the challenges, the Mavericks continued to fight, relying on teamwork and trust in each other.
The game itself was intense, with the Rockets initially holding a substantial lead in the second quarter. However, Dallas staged a dramatic comeback, forcing overtime with a crucial three-pointer from Dante Exum.
Coach Jason Kidd highlighted trust as the key factor in their victory, emphasizing Luka Doncic’s trust in his teammates, particularly during crucial moments like Exum’s game-changing shot. Kidd noted the chemistry and camaraderie among the team, emphasizing that such unity and trust are not developed overnight but are essential for success. He also highlighted the significance of Irving and Doncic’s embrace at the game’s end, symbolizing the trust they have in their teammates and their collective pursuit of a greater goal.
