“You All Tried to Bury This Dude”- Phil Handy Hits Back at Kyrie Irving’s Critics

Kyrie Irving and Phil Handy (Image source: Getty Images)
Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving is just one step behind to clinch another NBA trophy. Despite his prowess, Irving faced much criticism earlier in the season. Former Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Phil Handy has now hit back at Irving’s critics in his new social media post.

Handy took to Instagram, sharing a photo of himself with Irving and accompanying it with a pointed message aimed at Irving’s critics. Handy called for public apologies from those who had tried to undermine Irving’s career.

“There’s a lot of people in the hoop world who owe this man public apologies. Some of y’all tried to bury this dude and kill his career based on what you heard and not what you know… [Kobe] would be proud,” he wrote.

Irving’s performance this season has been legendary and spectacular. He finished as the second-highest scorer for the Mavericks during the Western Conference Finals, just behind Luka Doncic.

Irving’s contributions on the court have been pivotal in bringing the Mavericks to the brink of an NBA title. His impressive play has even managed to soften the stance of one of his long-time critics, Stephen A. Smith.

Phil Handy’s Support For Kyrie Irving Sparks Mixed Reactions Among Fans

After Phil Handy extended his support for Kyrie Irving, the former Cleveland Cavaliers assistant coach received significant praise from fans for his kind gesture. Many fans applauded Handy for stepping up to defend Irving at a critical time. Some even suggested that Handy should join the Mavericks.

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Like Handy, numerous fans believe that Irving has been unfairly treated by both the media and the public throughout his NBA career.

However, a substantial group of fans remain who expressed their discontent with Handy’s defense of Irving. These fans argue that Irving’s controversial actions, such as missing games and his stance against the COVID-19 vaccine, justify the criticism he has faced. They feel that Irving’s behavior has warranted the scrutiny and backlash he has received.

Irving will have another opportunity to respond to his critics in the 2024 NBA Finals, starting on June 6.