The Dallas Mavericks were dealt a harrowing injury update amid their game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday. Kyrie Irving had to leave the game early in the second quarter after he collided with his teammate, Dwight Powell. The injury ensued when Uncle Drew got fouled by Duop Reath as he drove to the Mavericks’ basket. Dallas center Powell, who was trying to get an offensive rebound, lost his balance and landed on Irving’s feet, resulting in Kyrie suffering a right heel contusion.

However, amid the injury scare, unfazed Kyrie Irving took to Instagram to announce a lucrative deal with a $33 million worth sneaker brand.

Kyrie Irving announces a new deal

The Dallas Mavericks guard took to Instagram to update his fans with positive news amid the injury scare. Irving announced that he has partnered up with KICKS CREW and is excited to invest in their “vision to empower a new generation of independent consumers and thinkers”. The tagline reads, “I Am Never Alone. 🤞🏾🪶♾️,” effectively relaying the vision behind the new deal.

He further detailed that his role as Chief Community Officer at KICKS CREW revolves around bringing diverse communities together through their shared passion for sneaker culture. Furthermore, through this partnership, they are striving to make a positive social impact by fostering “unity and philanthropy.” Irving also unveiled his Annual 11 days of Giving Initiative, where he will be giving away 111 pairs of his ANTA Shock Wave 5s, starting with the sneakers that he has worn during games.

Dallas Mavericks will be shorthanded in the absence of Kyrie Irving

Kyrie’s injury will leave Dallas shorthanded in tonight’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies. As per the latest injury reports, Irving is out indefinitely. Apart from him, the Mavs will miss the services of many key contributors. Grant Williams is ruled out for tonight versus the Grizzlies as he is battling with right knee soreness. Josh Green is expected to miss a few weeks due to a right elbow sprain. The Mavs will also be without their center, Maxi Kleber, who is nursing a toe injury.

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Tonight’s game at the FedEx Forum will mark their third meeting this season. After splitting a game each, both teams will be seeking to gain the upper hand tonight. The Grizzlies, who will hope to exploit the short-handed Mavericks, will still have a tough time against the shooting maestro Luka Doncic. The Slovenian phenom is playing at an MVP level, scoring averages of 31.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 8.4 assists this season.

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Do you think the Mavs will be able to take the game home? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.