Kyrie Irving has been an integral part of the Brooklyn Nets since his arrival to the franchise in 2019. Together with Kevin Durant and Ben Simmons, the Nets are going all-in for the championship. However, Kyrie’s absence because of the NYC mandate was a tremendous blow to the Nets, as he couldn’t take part in home games. It meant that the brunt of the pressure to win fell on Durant’s shoulders. This is especially true since Simmons has yet to suit up for the Nets this season.

However, the recent lifting of the mandate for professional athletes and performers meant Kyrie could finally play in the Nets colors at home. In fact, he took part in the Nets’ home game against the Hornets. Moreover, it was a huge confidence boost for the team, who can now step into the playoffs with their 2 centerpieces in KD and Kyrie. Following Kyrie’s return to the Barclay’s Center, he made a statement regarding his return and what it meant. However, this statement rubbed a section of fans in the wrong way.

Kyrie Irving’s Post Game Statement

Despite Kyrie losing to the Charlotte Hornets on his return, he made a statement after the game about what his return to the Barclays Center meant.

“Tonight, my presence out there was bigger than the basketball game. I was just representing a lot of individuals who are out there in a similar situation as me,” said Irving.

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“And now that I can play, I think we should be opened up for everybody,” he added.

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These words from Kyrie enraged a section of NBA fans who hit back at the superstar.

Fans React to Kyrie Irving

Despite Kyrie stating that his return was larger than the game, it angered many NBA fans. They put forth their opinions regarding the superstar’s words.

Clearly, the fans were not happy with Kyrie’s words, especially since he was eligible to play because of the lifting of the mandate only for professional athletes and performers. They hit back at the superstar by questioning what his words really stood for.

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Regardless, the Nets organization will be happy to have their superstar back in full action alongside Kevin Durant. This is true since the aim of any NBA franchise is to win the title. With more firepower on their hands, it is a confidence boost for the team. The only thing left now is for Ben Simmons to return. Thereafter, the Nets will be back to full strength and look to capture the Larry O’Brien trophy.