It’s been two months since Kyrie Irving underwent surgery to treat his season-ending torn ACL. The Mavericks fanbase was already in shock with the Luka Doncic trade to the Lakers, but he injury to Uncle Drew just made the season even worse. Many predict him to be out for at least 12 months, but some are hopeful of a comeback in January. Amidst this, the Mavs guard recently spoke at an event and expressed his feelings.

“First off, I want to say thank you to Shabazz family for inviting me here. This is truly an honor. I’m grateful that I could be here.” The 34-year-old received the 2025 Centennial Vanguard Award. Ilyasah Shabazz social activist and motivational speaker, also the third daughter of Malcolm X, shared the video on Instagram. Kyrie Irving continued and thanked his family, and spoke highly of following his faith.

“I have my son, Elohim, in the back, and my father, Drederick Irving, who I would not be who I am today without him in my life. So thank you. Thank you. Like I said, I’m a little nervous up here, just like I’m sure all the other recipients, but I stand here as a testimony of what faith can do for you, of what community can do for you. I’m an imperfect soul. I’m not afraid to admit that to you guys.” His tweets on controversial conspiracy theories or alleged stances on antisemitism have always marred Kyrie Irving’s full story. That’s why he has called himself an imperfect soul.

Later, he even revealed the process of healing himself. “I’ve been through a ton of S—, just like a bunch of you guys. And I’ve tried my best to move forward with the grace that it takes to understand where you come from while still trying to balance out how to be normal out here. So this vessel that I incarnated in on this beautiful earth, I’m grateful.”

Kai even commented on the post and thanked Shabazz for giving him the platform. “Love you Big Sister! And It’s an honor to be alongside you @ilyasahshabazz Tribe 🤞🏾♾🪶❤️.” No doubt, the injury is lingering on his mind. But, ultimately, he only spoke about his entire life journey and admission of improving from his mistakes.

Looking back at Kyrie Irving’s controversy during his time with the Nets

One tweet caused a lot of hate for Kai. Kyrie posted a link to a documentary with anti-Semitic views on October 27, 2022. Less than a week later, the Nets suspended Irving indefinitely in response to his actions and his initial refusal to offer an apology or explain his position. To make it worse, Nike also moved on from the star guard.

Kyrie Irving’s agent, Shetellia Riley Irving, told CNBC that the decision was mutual. “We have mutually decided to part ways and wish Nike the best in their future endeavors.” Plus, they also canceled the release of his next signature sneaker. After his suspension, as the criticism grew, Irving apologized on Instagram. While expressing regret for the damage caused. Later, that led to his trade to Dallas in 2023.

Then, the majority owner, Mark Cuban, before accepting the trade, made sure to do the proper research. Irving apologized and made sure to reiterate the fact that his stance was never to spread hate. Fast forward to 2025, those statements may still be in his mind, that’s why the star guard turned to faith and family to keep him going during the troubled times.