Kyrie Irving’s time with the Brooklyn Nets is remembered as one of the most volatile periods in his career, marked by off-court controversies and limited success on the court over three and a half seasons. His suspension during the 2021–22 NBA season, due to his refusal to comply with league COVID-19 vaccine mandates, became a major turning point in his tenure with the team.
In a recent Twitch livestream, Irving provided candid insights into the breakdown of his relationship with the Nets during that difficult episode. He described how even those within his business circle supported vaccination, but he wanted to be left out of that conversation entirely.
And even the people that I was in business with were pro-vaccine. And I’m like, okay, look, that’s fine, but just leave me the fuck out of this and let me go somewhere. You know what I’m saying?
—Kyrie Irving
Irving’s Request to Leave the Nets and Subsequent Trade
Irving further disclosed that he actively asked the Nets to release him amid the conflict. Although aware of his high-profile status and financial implications, he sought freedom to continue his career elsewhere. Instead of a release, the Nets eventually traded him to the Dallas Mavericks during the 2023 trade deadline.
I even told the Nets to release me. I said, ‘Yo, can you please just release me?’ And obviously the money situation, different situation. I’m fucking Kyrie. So it’s like, you know, it’s just, I say that very, very aware of my position, but they weren’t just gonna let me rock out, just go anywhere,
he explained.
Reflection on Kobe Bryant’s Enduring Influence
Apart from discussing the Nets controversy, Irving also reflected on Kobe Bryant’s legacy during the same Twitch broadcast. He emphasized Bryant’s impact beyond basketball skills, highlighting his character and the challenges he overcame, which earned him lasting respect and admiration.
When it comes to real recognizing real, this man Kobe Bean Bryant is immortalized not just because of his basketball. He is way bigger because of the character. Because of what we witnessed him go through,”
Irving stated.
Kobe Bryant was more than a basketball legend to Irving; he was a mentor who helped guide him in the early stages of his professional career, deepening Irving’s respect and admiration for the late icon.
Implications of the Brooklyn Nets Discord and Future Prospects
The revelations from Irving shed light on the internal struggles that shaped his Brooklyn Nets saga, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic era. His public comments underscore the complexities faced by players navigating personal beliefs, team policies, and league regulations.
As the NBA continues adapting to ongoing health policies and evolving player relationships, Irving’s story may influence how teams manage similar situations in the future. His move to the Dallas Mavericks represents a new chapter for him, separating him from a controversial period that significantly impacted his career and the team’s dynamics.