Introduction
Kyrie Irving is one of the most talented NBA players of our time, but not many people know about his upbringing and the role his parents played in his success. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life of Kyrie Irving’s parents and how they influenced him to become the superstar he is today.
Who Are Kyrie Irving’s Parents?
Kyrie Irving was born on March 23, 1992, in Melbourne, Australia, to two parents who were also athletes. His father, Drederick Irving, played college basketball at Boston University and went on to play professionally in Australia. His mother, Elizabeth Irving, was a member of the Canadian national team in track and field.
Early Life
Kyrie Irving’s parents separated when he was just two years old, and his mother moved to the United States with him and his older sister, Asia. They settled in West Orange, New Jersey, where Kyrie attended The Montclair Kimberley Academy. His mother worked multiple jobs to support the family, but she always made time to take him to basketball games and practices.
The Influence of His Father
Kyrie Irving’s father, Drederick, was a significant influence on his basketball career. He taught Kyrie the fundamentals of the game and would take him to the park to practice his skills. Drederick also coached Kyrie’s AAU team, the New Jersey Roadrunners, which helped him develop his game further.
High School and College Career
Kyrie Irving attended St. Patrick High School in New Jersey, where he played basketball and quickly became one of the top high school players in the country. He went on to play college basketball at Duke University, where he was named the ACC Rookie of the Year and helped lead Duke to the NCAA championship game.
The NBA
Kyrie Irving was selected as the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He quickly became a fan favorite and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2012. He played for the Cavaliers for six seasons before being traded to the Boston Celtics in 2017. He then signed with the Brooklyn Nets in 2019.
Lessons Learned from Kyrie Irving’s Parents
Kyrie Irving’s parents taught him many valuable lessons that have helped him become successful both on and off the court. Here are some of the most important ones:
Work Ethic
Kyrie’s mother worked multiple jobs to support the family, and his father was dedicated to coaching and mentoring him. They taught him the value of hard work and dedication, which he has carried with him throughout his career.
Belief in Yourself
Kyrie’s parents always believed in him, even when others doubted him. They instilled in him the confidence to pursue his dreams and to believe in himself, which has helped him overcome challenges and setbacks in his career.
Family Comes First
Despite their separation, Kyrie’s parents always put their children first. They made sure to attend his games and practices and to support him in any way they could. This taught Kyrie the importance of family and has helped him maintain strong relationships with his loved ones.
Conclusion
Kyrie Irving’s parents played a vital role in his success as a basketball player and as a person. Their dedication, hard work, and belief in him have helped him become one of the most talented players in the NBA. Kyrie’s story is a reminder that with the right support and guidance, anyone can achieve their dreams.