Kyrie Irving Mulls Retirement as NBA Landscape Shifts

Entering his 14th active season with the Dallas Mavericks in 2026-27, Kyrie Irving told reporters he is weighing retirement options over the next few years. He cited the league’s “rapidly-changing landscape,” noting the rise of social media and gambling and describing the modern game as “less human” and “more robotic.” Irving said he will assess whether he still loves the core aspects of basketball versus the surrounding “hoopla.”

Newsweek

Irving missed the entire 2025-26 season after suffering an ACL tear the year before. Prior to that, he posted a 24.7-point average, along with 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game during the 2024-25 campaign. The injury marks a significant interruption in a career that began with a championship in 2016 and includes multiple All-Star selections.

Newsweek

• 2024-25 season averages: 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists per game.

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• Missed 2025-26 season due to ACL tear.

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• Set to play the 2026-27 season for the Mavericks, who will open the regular season against the Houston Rockets in late October.

Newsweek

Irving’s comments reflect a personal evaluation of the sport’s direction rather than a formal retirement announcement. He emphasized his love for playing and competition while questioning whether he embraces the broader entertainment elements now tied to the NBA.

Newsweek

• “The game has changed. It's become less human. It's more robotic,” — Kyrie Irving — Kyrie Irving, NBA player.

Newsweek