Kyrie Irving scripts history with a stunning record in closeout games
Kyrie Irving added another historic milestone to his hall-of-fame-worthy career on Saturday. Following the Dallas Mavericks' Western Conference semifinals win over the number-one-ranked OKC Thunder, Irving becomes the only player in NBA history to go 14-0 in elimination games.
From his clutch go-ahead shot in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, propelling the Cleveland Cavaliers to victory over the Golden State Warriors and securing his first and only championship ring, Kyrie Irving's presence is deeply woven into the fabric of NBA lore.
Now, following his pivotal role in the Mavericks' triumph over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals, Irving once again recorded his name in the annals of NBA history.
Kyrie Irving elaborates on his historic record after Game 6 win
In the final moments of the game, with the Mavericks trailing 116-115 and just 2.5 seconds remaining, the outcome hung in the balance. A controversial shooting foul was called on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as PJ Washington attempted a three-pointer.
Washington calmly sank both the tying and go-ahead free throws, sealing the Mavericks' victory in dramatic fashion.
"I think it's just the preparation and the moment," Irving said in the ESPN postgame show with Malika Andrews.
He continued,
"You just get to the point where you have the opportunity to close out a team, you want to take advantage of it."
Irving, who had struggled to find his rhythm in the previous two games, finally found his groove, tallying 22 points. He came through for the Mavericks in the tense fourth quarter, scoring eight crucial points, including two timely 3-pointers.
During the on-court interview after the game, Irving admitted to trying to maintain his composure while letting the significance of the victory sink in.
Skip Bayless highlighted that Irving's statement reflects a deep respect for Oklahoma City, especially considering the star guard's history of epic postseason battles, including his comeback from a 3-1 deficit against the 73-9 Golden State Warriors in the 2016 NBA Finals.
Irving also expressed gratitude towards his teammates throughout his career, acknowledging that he wouldn't be in his current position without their support. Despite a slow start in the game, Irving elevated his performance in the second half, a trend he has demonstrated multiple times this postseason.