Despite their surprising split as teammates, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving have maintained a strong friendship after the Dallas Mavericks traded Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February. Their ongoing loyalty to each other was evident during a recent emotional livestream conversation, highlighting the depth of their connection beyond basketball.
Close Friendship Persists After Trade to Lakers
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving shared nearly three seasons together on the Dallas Mavericks before the trade sent Doncic to the Lakers. The two stars supported one another amid the abrupt end of their partnership, with Doncic reaching out to Irving during a live stream on a Friday night. The interaction quickly caught the attention of fans, who reacted positively to seeing the genuine camaraderie between the former teammates.
During the chat, Doncic jokingly called Irving a “streamer,” and Irving reminded him not to stay up too late. Doncic explained it was 4:00 AM where he was and that he wasn’t busy, prompting him to call his close friend. Their playful exchange reflected the comfortable connection they still share despite changes in their professional careers.
Trade Marked the End of a Promising Run
Doncic and Irving had been central to the Mavericks’ run to the 2024 NBA Finals, where they fell to the Boston Celtics in five games. Many believed the duo could soon contend for a championship, but the Mavericks’ president of basketball operations, Nico Harrison, sought a shift in team strategy, desiring improved defensive capabilities. This led to the trade of Doncic in exchange for Anthony Davis from the Lakers.
The trade was difficult for Doncic, who showed visible emotion returning to Dallas for the first time. Before a game, the Mavericks honored him with a tribute video, and the star wept while embracing former teammates, including Irving. The moment highlighted the personal toll the move took on Doncic despite its professional nature.
Kyrie Irving Expresses His Heartfelt Reaction
Following the trade, Irving openly shared his feelings during a press conference after a narrow loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. He described the shock of learning the news in the midst of preparing for bed, calling it a “grieving process.” In his own words:
“Just really shocked. You just don’t imagine you’re going to get ready to go to sleep and then you find out news like that. It’s still a grieving process right now. I miss my hermano.”
—Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks Star
Irving also spoke candidly with fans on Twitch, sharing the emotional struggles that followed the trade. Though saddened, he acknowledged that moving forward was necessary after the deal was finalized.
Ongoing Bond Beyond Basketball
Even with their careers now taking different paths, Doncic and Irving’s relationship remains strong. Their recent communications illustrate how their friendship endures beyond team affiliations and trades. As Luka Doncic adapts to his new role with the Los Angeles Lakers and Irving continues with the Mavericks, their mutual respect and support signal a meaningful bond that transcends the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Luka Doncic a billionaire?
A. By the year 2025, Luka Doncic’s estimated net worth is about $75 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth.