Kyrie Irving's new deal with Mavs makes unique NBA history
Despite rumors he may go elsewhere, Kyrie Irving is returning to the Dallas Mavericks, agreeing on Friday to a three-year, $126 million contract, which made unique NBA history.
Shetellia Riley Irving, Irving's stepmother and agent, negotiated the deal, marking the first time an African American woman has done so in the history of the NBA.
Previously represented by Roc Nation, Irving was agentless for nearly a year before hiring Riley Irving in May 2022. Believed to be the first and only woman of color to represent an NBA player, Riley Irving is also a businesswoman, having worked as the vice president of ad sales for Black Entertainment Television. Roughly a year after becoming Irving's representation, she was the voice leading the point-guards trade request from the Brooklyn Nets in February.
Ahead of the start of free agency Friday evening, Irving indicated that he planned to test the free agent market after opting out of his $36 million player option. Whispers he'd meet with the Phoenix Suns emerged, but it appears it was all a leverage tactic by Irving's side. Nevertheless, Irving will be a Maverick for at least the next two seasons; his new $126 million deal includes a player option for year three.
The Mavericks were only 8-12 in the 20 games Irving played last season. Irving averaged 27 points, six assists and five rebounds with the Mavericks, and Dallas is betting that he'll only get more comfortable alongside star Luka Doncic moving forward. Whether or not that plan comes to fruition, we'll have to wait to find out.
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