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The Dallas Mavericks suffered a massive blow when Kyrie Irving, their leading scorer and offensive anchor, went down with a season-ending ACL injury against the Sacramento Kings on March 3, 2025.
Fans held their breath as Irving—Mavs’ ultimate weapon after Luka Dončić was sent to the Los Angeles Lakers in a shocking trade, was helped off the court. Soon, it became clear that the nine-time NBA All-Star wouldn’t be returning this season.
However, Irving took to social media to express gratitude for the overwhelming support from the basketball community, reassuring fans that he was okay and determined to return stronger. He revealed that his recovery process had already begun—and his recent public appearance confirmed that he’s on the mend. The 2016 NBA champion was spotted courtside during the Mavericks’ game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Irving Makes First Public Appearance Since Devastating ACL Injury
The Mavericks faced the Grizzlies, the fourth seed in the West, on March 7 at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. While Dallas was obviously without Irving, fans still got a glimpse of their favorite star as he was seen watching the game from the stands—his first public appearance since the injury.
A popular X handle dedicated to covering Irving, Kyrie Centre, posted a video featuring the veteran guard sitting courtside.
“Kyrie is in the building for the Mavericks-Grizzlies game 🔥”
Kyrie is in the building for the Mavericks-Grizzlies game 🔥
(🎥 @_abigaiiiil) pic.twitter.com/Q2g0n3jNI2
— Kyrie Center (@kyriecenterig) March 8, 2025
Irving was seen wearing a brace on his left leg, highlighting the seriousness of his injury.
This marks the second time the veteran guard has missed the end of a season. Back in 2017-18, he underwent surgery to remove screws implanted in his left knee after suffering a patellar fracture during the 2015 NBA Finals. While there’s no clear timeline for his return, his presence at the game is an encouraging sign of progress in his recovery.
Mavericks Struggle Without Irving in 122-111 Loss to Grizzlies
With both Irving and 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis sidelined, the Mavericks lacked firepower on offense—and it showed. The Grizzlies, coming off a four-game losing streak and low on confidence, capitalized on Dallas’ struggles to secure a 122-111 victory.
Ja Morant was the difference-maker for Memphis, scoring seven crucial points in the final 1:35 and finishing with 31 points. He had strong support from Desmond Bane, who contributed 27 points and a career-high 16 rebounds.
Despite the loss, Brandon Williams with 31 points and Naji Marshall with 29 points, put up a fight for Dallas. However, they couldn’t overcome the 11-point deficit, leaving Irving to watch helplessly as his team fell short.
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