Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving returns from a 19-month absence due to a left knee torn ACL, declaring himself under no physical restrictions and ready to join forces with 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. Irving addressed reporters Friday at the team’s preseason media day, marking his first public comments since the March 3, 2025 injury.
Kyrie Irving Cleared for Preseason After 19-Month ACL Recovery
Irving, 34, stated that he faces no physical limitations after recovering from the torn ACL in his left knee. He described the lengthy layoff as “probably the best thing that happened to me,” noting it provided valuable time for personal and professional reflection.
“I’m ready to go out there and kick some butt,” Irving said. “I know that naysayers or some of the questions around where I’m going to be are going to be inevitable. But for me, I have the confidence of a champion.”
Team president Masai Ujiri confirmed the guard’s readiness on the floor. “In terms of health, he’s right there,” Ujiri said. “You hope he plays games and he gets right back into it.”
Teaming Up With Cooper Flagg in Dallas
Irving will share the court with Cooper Flagg, who earned unanimous Kia Rookie of the Year honors last season. The duo spent the summer months working out together to establish chemistry ahead of the upcoming campaign.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to grow with him,” Irving said. “High-level basketball players, no matter the age – you put us out there, we’re going to win some ballgames.”
Flagg expressed similar enthusiasm for the partnership. “Having somebody like that out there on the court with you at all times is going to be amazing,” Flagg said. “The time that we’ve been able to spend in the summer on the court together has been good for both of us to kind of build that connection.”
A Revamped Mavericks Franchise Led by Masai Ujiri and Dusty May
Irving and Flagg return to a heavily overhauled organization following a 26-56 lottery finish last season, which marked Dallas’ worst record in eight years. The front office underwent major changes when Ujiri took over as team president in early May.
Ujiri subsequently hired Dusty May in late June to replace Jason Kidd as head coach. May arrives in Dallas after leading Michigan to an NCAA title last season, becoming the first coach to jump directly from college basketball to an NBA head coaching job since John Beilein left Michigan for the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019.
“Kyrie has seen and done as much as just about anyone in the association,” May said regarding coaching a nine-time All-Star. “I would expect that I’m only going to coach him when I’m able to add value.”
Did You Know? Dusty May is the first coach to make the direct leap from the NCAA ranks to an NBA bench since John Beilein took the Cleveland Cavaliers job in 2019.
Roster Moves and Preseason Schedule
In addition to integrating Irving and Flagg, the Mavericks announced Friday the re-signing of Dwight Powell. Powell is currently the longest-tenured player on the roster, having joined the club via a December 2014 trade from Boston during his rookie season.
Dallas kicks off its preseason schedule with a pair of games against the Houston Rockets in Macao, China, starting October 9. The Mavericks then open the regular season on the road against Houston on October 21, followed by their home opener on October 24 against the Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Kyrie Irving suffer his ACL injury?
Kyrie Irving sustained a torn ACL in his left knee on March 3, 2025, sidelining him for 19 months.
Who is the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks?
Dusty May serves as the head coach of the Mavericks, having been hired in late June after winning an NCAA title with Michigan.
When is the Dallas Mavericks’ season opener?
The Mavericks open the regular season away against the Houston Rockets on October 21, with their home opener scheduled for October 24 against the San Antonio Spurs.
What do you expect from the pairing of Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg this season? Drop a comment below and join the discussion!
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