By james art DALLAS – Kyrie Irving has been a great leader for the Dallas Mavericks. He embraced the role with the Mavs and Dallas is in a great position because of it. However, is Irving interested in becoming an NBA head coach after his playing career is over?
“Yeah, I don’t know if I’m going to coach at this level, man,” Irving said. “I’m more like a consultant. I like to set my own hours. If you know my personality, I don’t try to be forced to do anything, man. You tell me I have to show up at 9am, I’m like… maybe 9:08 or something.
Irving then gave some insight into his post-playing career plans.
“After I finish, I will definitely have one of the best academies of all time. You know, skill training, mental, spiritual, emotional,” Irving continued. “And just bring in a lot of the experts, not just in the game of basketball, but in different areas. I’m just putting a lot of young together, a lot of young old heads, old heads bringing them back together, making sure I pay homage to the legends. After basketball, it will be a lot of fun, but right now I’m enjoying it just as much.”
Kyrie Irving is a great leader for the Mavericks
Luka Doncic is arguably the best player in the NBA. Markieff Morris is a respected player as a veteran Mavs. But Kyrie Irving offers both veteran prowess, key experience and elite play. Doncic and Morris are also leaders without a doubt, but Irving’s leadership is the difference-maker.
Related Dallas Mavericks newsThe article continues below
Irving was acquired by the Mavs during the 2022-23 season. Dallas missed the postseason but returned in 2023-24. The Mavericks reached the NBA Finals and Kyrie Irving led the way along with Doncic.
Dallas has championship hopes this season. They added more experience by acquiring Klay Thompson during the offseason. Dallas has also improved its depth.
Sure, maybe Kyrie Irving won’t be coaching in the NBA. Maybe he’ll change his mind and warm to the idea someday. Either way, Irving’s leadership is critical for the Mavericks right now.