NBA Superstar Announces Return to Court After Over a Year Out

Pulse Sports Team 12:09 - 31 May 2026

After a lengthy absence due to a severe knee injury, Kyrie Irving is on the verge of returning to action. The experienced Dallas Mavericks guard announced that his recovery from an ACL tear is entering its final phase, and he could be available to the team next season.

During a Twitch stream, Irving discussed his health status, expressing satisfaction with his rehabilitation progress.

I'm definitely close to 100 percent in terms of my ACL recovery. I'm very grateful to have had enough time to heal all the issues.Kyrie Irving

The 34-year-old guard missed the entire 2025-26 season, noting that his time away from the court provided him with a different perspective on the game and his own body.

Over time, I grew tired of the daily rhythm and routine we live for years. Minor injuries took their toll, but now I feel the game slowing down for me, and I'm learning how to be more efficient with the ball.Kyrie Irving

Before his injury, Irving was one of Dallas's most crucial players in the 2024-25 season. In 49 games, he averaged 24.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 36 minutes on the court. The American point guard joined the Mavericks in 2022 after a trade from the Brooklyn Nets. If his recovery proceeds as planned, next season he will share the locker room for the first time with one of American basketball's greatest talents, Cooper Flagg.