Skeptics of Kyrie Irving have always existed. But thanks in large part to Irving, the Dallas Mavericks are about to make their first NBA Finals appearance in over ten years. During Game 3 of the Western Conference finals, Kyrie Irving put his arm around Luka Dončić as time ran down. The loud cheers of the audience surrounded the NBA’s most unexpected success story at that very time. The Mavericks are up three games to three down. Their most recent victory, 116–107, put the Minnesota Timberwolves up by what looked like an insurmountable margin. In an NBA playoff series, no team has ever recovered from a 3-0 deficit, and it is even less likely now that they are up against the combined strength of Irving and Dončić.

Who would have thought this feasible last winter? Irving had just pushed his way onto yet another NBA team after forcing his way out of Brooklyn. Granted, his relationship with Dončić had potential, but we had already seen this film. Irving has been a part of winning teams with superstar players, but the trips usually ended badly. Less damage was caused by Vesuvius in Cleveland, Boston, and Brooklyn. Many people were adamant that Irving’s contract with the Mavs, which was for $126 million, would not work out.

However, it hasn’t. Irving has a significant role in the fact that Dallas is about to make their first Finals appearance in more than ten years. Irving’s style of play is recognizable: his deft jump shot and skill with the ball. In the third game, he shot 40% from three and 60% from the field to score 33 points in 42 minutes. He scored 14 points in the fourth quarter alone, holding the Timberwolves at bay with midrange shots and spin layups.

Are you Mr. Fourth Quarter, Mr.? Dončić said. “He’s incredible.”

However, Irving has a fresh side in Dallas. The remote player from Brooklyn and the daring star from Boston feel like faraway recollections. Irving has demonstrated maturity and leadership in Dallas. Coach Jason Kidd stated, “He’s mentoring the younger guys on what it means to be a pro.” Kidd commends Irving for his readiness to yield when called upon.

Kidd remarked, “Kai’s been around the block.” He is content to play second or first base. That’s just not something you find very often in this league.

In his heart, Irving knows he is not a backup plan. Too arrogant for that. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, and other greats from any age are all competitors who Irving and his former New Jersey pals think they could contend with. He is still a productive scorer at the age of 32. After learning about Kidd’s remarks, Irving grinned and shrugged.

Irving remarked, “To be really honest with you, I don’t care about being 1A, 1B, or even C as a backup option at this point in my life.” “I see it only as a basketball victory.”

Irving looks perfect in Dallas. He has adapted to the Texas heat after living in colder climates for many years. Irving stated, “Seasonal depression is real.” The Hall of Fame point guard Kidd also strikes him as a kindred spirit. Kidd has advised Irving to observe former greats who consistently found ways to make an influence on the game, such as Scottie Pippen, Robert Horry, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant.

James Harden, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and LeBron James are just a few of the famous players Irving has shared the court with. Dončić is the newest, and their relationship appears to be long-lasting. In Game 3, Dončić added 33 points of his own. As the first starting backcourt to accomplish it in fifty years, Irving and Dončić scored thirty or more points in the same game for the third time this postseason. Their method is methodical and patient; it’s not a “my turn, your turn” kind of approach.

Irving remarked, “I’ve felt like one of the best players in the world since I was a young child because I can play with other great players.” “I don’t demand the ball, I don’t ask for it. I’ll perform all the other duties that go unnoticed on the stat sheet, like playing defense. And I’ve always wanted people to remember me for that.

Irving has benefited much from Dončić, and vice versa. In Dončić’s six seasons, the Mavericks have tried a number of co-stars for him, including Kristaps Porziņģis, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Jenen Brunson, but none of them have been a long-term partner. While on the court, Irving attracts defenses, and while off it, he helps Dončić navigate the strange world of lengthy playoff runs. Dončić told Irving late in Game 3 how weary he was.

Dončić continued, “He told me that’s the way it’s supposed to be.” He has brought maturity and peace to our team and me. He’s been our team’s greatest asset.

“I used to think leadership was just about me, me, me, and taking on all the responsibility,” said Irving in reflection. No, it isn’t even close to that. Anything is possible if you have supportive family, friends, and loved ones in your life.

There will always be doubters. Irving is held accountable in Boston for the team’s decline. His exit in Brooklyn sent the franchise into rebuilding mode. Irving is seen by some as an organizational bomb that is just waiting to go off—a ticking time bomb. However, what the Mavericks perceive is that the star is happy to take on a supporting role, and the leader is content to be a soldier. Irving claims he has discovered serenity in Dallas.

For the most part, anyhow. When Irving concluded his Sunday news appearance, his two kids were waiting for their father to take them home from the curtain, looking exhausted. After answering a few more questions, Irving winked, grinned, and moved off the dais.

Irving remarked, “I think this is a great chapter being written right now.” “I’m having fun at every turn.”