Kyrie Irving is officially a member of the Boston Celtics after spending the first six seasons of his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The All-Star guard took to Instagram to thank the fans and city of Cleveland for a memorable run:
My love extends way beyond the court I have for Cleveland and it will always be a place that’s special because of the great people and experiences. The ups and downs, we stand and fight no matter what the circumstances are, and that’s what being in Cleveland embodies, it is all love and a whole lotta pride. To the incredible individuals I’ve met who support the Cleveland organization and help allow us as players to feel a special bond to the state/city and shared countless moments with, keep being YOU and know that my appreciation is eternal. Thank you from my whole being for being there as I was a 19-year-old kid coming into the league, to now where I start another step in the journey as a 25-year-old evolving man. It will always be love and respect Cleveland. “The journey is always the reward”
Irving was selected by the Cavaliers with the No. 1 overall pick of the 2011 Draft. He was named to four All-Star teams during his time in Cleveland with averages of 21.6 points, 5.5 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 381 games.
He now heads to Boston to join forces with a young, talented squad that looks positioned to challenge Cleveland for the Eastern Conference crown.