Kyrie Irving and LeBron James reportedly did a lot to repair their relationship after their Cleveland Cavaliers union ended abruptly in 2017.
However, Irving apparently still has issues with some of James’ off-the-court business deals and the brands he associates with. Earlier this week, Irving seemed to agree with some fans blasting James for “selling out” for associating with Polymarket despite his past comments about the negative influence of gambling on the NBA.
The Mavericks star reposted a tweet from hockey writer Nick Zararis that read:
“I miss when there was a stigma to selling out.” [H/T Fadeaway World]
In another post, Irving seemed to question whether James was being earnest in his praise of Stephen Curry during an episode of “Mind the Game” last year.
“For the untrained eyes, this caption looks like a compliment.”
Kyrie Irving Conveying a Messsage?
Irving’s actions aren’t surprising. The nine-time All-Star frequently displays idealistic tendencies, prioritizing his personal beliefs, spiritual growth, and social advovacy over lucrative sponsorships and conventional career milestones.
When James announced his partnership with Polymarket, he faced a lot of backlash, with some analysts bringing up his past comments about the dangers of gambling.
Warriors beat writer Lucas Evans reposted old quotes from a 2023 interview with LA Times in which “The King” said the NBA had lost some “integrity” by associating with gambling companies and openly encouraging fans to bet on games.
“I mean, it’s weird that some of our regular fans that love the game kind of only care about a parlay now,” James said. “I guess that’s the word everybody is using. It’s kind of taken some of the integrity out of the game because people are kind of really only caring about the betting.
“I mean, it’s always [happened],” James continued. “I mean, listen, people have been betting on games since Arnold Rothstein set the bet … on the World Series [in 1919]. Come on, come on. So, it’s been going on for years. But it’s legalized now. Is it legalized in every state now? The majority, right? I think it’s in 38-plus states. So, I mean, to each his own.”
LeBron James Enters 24th Season
LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly fully healthy entering training camp ahead of the 2026-27 season. They will play the reigning champions New York Knicks on opening night on October 20.
When he signed a two-year veteran minimum deal to sign with the Sixers, James made it clear that he plans to retire in the City of Brotherly Love.
“This is my last decision,” he wrote on X.
“I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship.
“I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time. Thank you LA. Miami I’ll forever love and Northeast Ohio will always home!”
The Sixers are trying to win their first championship since 1983.
Kyrie Irving Seemingly Calls Out ‘Sell Out’ LeBron James on Social Media