In one of the biggest matchups in this year’s NBA playoffs, the Brooklyn Nets took on the Boston Celtics. However, it has not been a glorious return to the TD Garden for Kyrie Irving. 

The Celtics home crowd was quite vocal towards the former Celtics player and he addressed the audience in the post-match conference. Giving Irving a reality check, 4 time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal had a lot to say.

Talking on Inside the NBA, Shaq talked about how certain cities do not care what you talk in the press conference. Furthermore, he revealed that the home crowd will take things to the next level in game 2.

Shaquille O’Neal gives Kyrie Irving a reality check

The Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum, pulled off a shocking last second win over the Brooklyn Nets. Despite Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant having good games in terms of scoring, the Nets fell short.

Interestingly enough, former Celtics player Kyrie Irving was the centre of attraction during this game. The home crowd was vocal towards Uncle Drew the entire game, and Irving addressed the fans in the press conference.

Due to the constant booing and provocations, Irving flipped a finger at the Celtics fans. Talking about the incident, he said, “When people start yelling ‘p—y’ or ‘b—-‘ and ‘f— you’ and all this stuff, there’s only but so much you take as a competitor. We’re the ones expected to be docile and be humble, take a humble approach, f— that, it’s the playoffs. This is what it is“

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4 time NBA champion and Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal gave his take regarding the incident. Shaq said, “I don’t really wanna hear all that. You know, certain cities, they don’t care what you said at the press conference. You know what’s gonna happen in game two?

He added, “They’re gonna be talking more smack. I played in Boston for two years but listen, it happens to the best of us. “

How did Irving perform?

Keeping all controversies aside, Irving had a phenomenal game. He scored 39 points with 18 of them coming in the fourth quarter. Simultaneously, Kevin Durant posted 23 points but shot just 9 out of 24.

From the Celtics team, Jayson Tatum continued his brilliant form. He posted 31 points against the Nets, including a buzzer beater that gives his team a 1-0 lead with a 114-115 win. (Source: ESPN)

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