Mavericks star Kyrie Irving made sure to leave a good impression on the fans in his recent trip to China this week. In a video that went viral on X, the multiple-time champion is seen walking the streets and flashing a Kobe Bryant jersey to a crowd of cheering fans.
Gratitude and Love🤞🏾🪶♾❤️ https://t.co/JrVrxxgile
— Kyrie🤞🏾 (@KyrieIrving) September 18, 2024
Irving, 32, knows how important the Lakers legend is to the people of China. During his NBA career, Kobe made it a mission to support his Chinese fans and his efforts to expand his reach there resulted in a huge following of millions of people. Bryant frequently made trips to the country and his signature ‘Kobe’ sneaker line is a favorite among the locals.
He had a special connection to China and the people there with several timeless stories to prove it. Both Carlos Boozer and LeBron James have been blown away by Kobe’s popularity in the nation and it was on full display during a charity event when he dropped 68 points in 15 minutes.
To this day, even after his death, Kobe’s legacy in China is unprecedented and he currently ranks among the most popular foreign athletes in Chinese history. Like so many around the world, Kyrie also had a deep appreciation and connection with Kobe and it seems he’s using that relationship to connect with the Chinese people.
During Irving’s Cleveland days, back before even LeBron James‘ return, Irving was looking to Bryant as a mentor and leader both on the court and in everyday life. He trained with Kobe and used his game as a backbone for his own playstyle on the court.
As Irving broke away from the Cavaliers, he looked to Bryant for guidance and tried to follow his example going into the future. Unfortunately, Kobe passed away before he could see Irving grow into the leader he’s become today.
After winning a title in 2016 and forcing his way out, things changed for Kyrie and he didn’t find it so easy to lead a franchise as the number one guy. After failed stints with the Celtics and Nets, Irving finally landed with the Mavericks where he’s come full circle on a redemption arc that has saved his legacy.
Leaving the drama in the past, Kyrie has developed into a fine leader for the Mavericks, and one that Kobe himself would be proud of. Last season, with Luka Doncic, he helped the Mavs reach the NBA Finals while averaging 22.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game.
Going into the new season, Irving is hoping to channel some of that same energy to empower another deep playoff run. Whatever happens, Irving will have the support of his Chinese fans who made sure to let him feel the love ten-fold in his latest visit.
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