The defending champions, the Boston Celtics, dominated their last season’s NBA Finals rivals, the Dallas Mavericks, again on Saturday. Despite a modest play and combined efforts from Kyrie Irving’s team, Dallas ended the game with a 107-122 loss at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.
The game, however, drew attention to an unexpected moment involving Irving. During the second quarter, with the Celtics leading 46-35, Irving attempted a pass that went astray. The ball accidentally struck a young fan seated courtside with his family, which resulted in a bloody nose for the child.
Kyrie threw a pass so bad he injured a little kid 😭 pic.twitter.com/CHQk8wfJvK
— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) January 25, 2025
Fans immediately took to social media to roast Irving for injuring the child:
If only he would have compensated for the curve of the earth.
— Daniel Woodward (@DanielWoodward) January 26, 2025
Kyrie bro… 😭😭😭
— George Tai (@George8644Tai) January 25, 2025
What was that pass!?
Kyrie is a HOF level school threat 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/8lynjWuqiB
— Biased Rockets (@BiasedRockets) January 25, 2025
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Irving, along with Derrick White and Jaylen Brown, immediately rushed to check on the injured boy. Though the injury was not severe, the incident surely left a lasting impression on the young fan.
For the child, the encounter became an unforgettable experience for getting up close to several NBA stars, albeit in unfortunate circumstances. It’s a memory likely to stay with him for years to come.
Kyrie Irving’s Struggles Against Celtics Continue Despite Solid Performance
The loss on Saturday marked yet another tough night for Kyrie Irving. His record against his former team now stands at 1-15 in his last 16 games. Despite the loss, Irving delivered a strong individual performance, recording 22 points, four assists, and three rebounds.
The Mavericks had other notable contributions. Quentin Grimes recorded 20 points, and Daniel Gafford posted a double-double with 19 points and 15 rebounds. However, without their star player Luka Doncic, the Mavericks’ struggles were clear. They now hold a 24-22 record for the season and sit ninth in the Western Conference.
The Celtics, on the other hand, proved their depth and balance. Jayson Tatum led the team with 24 points, six rebounds, and three assists, while Jaylen Brown added 22 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Derrick White contributed 23 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 18 points and five assists.