Video Catches Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum's Postgame Handshake

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Spencer Ostrow | Last updated Jan 25, 2025 9:30 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks welcomed the Boston Celtics back to American Airlines Center on Saturday night for the first time since Game 4 of the 2024 NBA Finals. Both teams were looking to gain momentum as the NBA All-Star break in mid-February quickly approaches.

Despite going down 16-6 early, Boston responded in a big way, growing a lead to as many as 25 in the third quarter. In the end, the Celtics pulled out a 122-107 victory, with Jayson Tatum and Kyrie Irving leading the way for their respective teams.

Tatum put up 24 points, six rebounds and three assists in the win, while Irving finished with 22 points, four rebounds and five assists.

After the game, the two stars greeted other players before taking a moment to do their signature handshake. Their interaction lingered longer than the rest as Tatum and Irving followed their handshake up with a hug.

A video of the encounter made its way to social media.

After the game, Kyrie Irving daps up all the Celtics coaches and players, then has a long embrace with Jayson Tatum. pic.twitter.com/WMlNWiO0Rp
— Dorothy J. Gentry (@DorothyJGentry) January 26, 2025

The postgame moment stood out, given that Tatum and Irving were teammates on the Celtics from 2017-19.

During their time together, they led Boston to the Eastern Conference Finals and the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The two have remained close friends throughout their NBA days.

With the victory, Boston improves its record to 32-14 and will head home to face the Houston Rockets on Monday. Dallas, on the other hand, falls to 24-22 and will also return to the court on Monday. The Mavericks will host the Washington Wizards.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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