Kyrie Irving and LeBron James (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James recently made headlines by expressing his regret over not being a running mate with Kyrie Irving.

This comment has stirred up the media, and the Dallas Mavericks star guard is fond of LeBron’s knack for creating a buzz, especially with the 2024 NBA Finals approaching.

During a recent press conference, Irving reacted to LeBron’s recent comment that the latter missed playing with the Mavericks star.

“His leadership style, and my leadership style, I think meshed very well. Shoutout to [LeBron James] for that. He knows how to stir up a media storm,” Irving said.

As the Mavericks are just four wins away from clinching their second NBA trophy, Irving’s primary focus is on the upcoming finals.

With this mindset, Irving aims to employ the strategies and leadership techniques he absorbed during his time with LeBron.

“Definitely think about those times but now we’re here in the present where we’re able to reflect… now I’m at this stage able to use some of the formulas I was taught from him [LeBron].”

Luka Doncic Praises Kyrie Irving’s Leadership as Mavericks Head to Finals

Throughout his career, Kyrie Irving has learned from some exceptional leaders. He is now applying those lessons to guide the young Mavericks squad.

His leadership has been instrumental in leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years, which also marked Irving’s return to the Finals after a seven-year hiatus.

Seeing Irving’s dedicated leadership, teammate Luka Doncic couldn’t help but praise him for keeping the team united and motivated.

“His leadership is amazing. The way he connects us. I think me and Kyrie are the leaders of this team, but he’s the one that’s been in the Finals. He’s the one that won in the Finals. He’s the one that is really leading it. He’s keeping us all together and motivated,” Doncic said.

Irving is now in the NBA Finals for the fourth time. With Game 1 set to occur on Thursday, he is rushing to help the Mavericks secure their second NBA trophy.

His experience of winning one championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers could be the most significant factor in the Mavericks’ quest for the championship.