NEW YORK – After weeks of using Instagram stories and written statements as his primary means of communication, Kerry Irving spoke to reporters after practice at the Brooklyn Nets on Monday morning and reflected on playing for the first time since February, being on the court with KP Durant and why. He chose to violate the league’s media rules.
Asked not to speak to reporters earlier, Irving said the focus is on what’s going on here. “And I wanted to make sure it was clear, no interruptions, nothing about scattering anything, nothing about going back and forth.”
Despite the league’s requirement that healthy players be made available to the press corps before or after practice and games, Irving did not speak to reporters during training camp, rather than issuing a statement. Irving and Nets were fined $ 25,000 last week as a result. Irving responded to the fine on Instagram, in part: “I pray we use ‘fine money’, especially for marginalized communities in need, especially Seeing where our world is right now … I’m not talking to the wind. My focus is more valuable. “
Irving said Monday that the comment was not directed at any particular individual or group of journalists.
“That’s really how I felt about abusing certain artists when we make decisions to have full control and ownership in our lives … we want to perform in a safe and secure space.” He said.
While Irving did not attend any news conferences through training camp, his teammates and coaches repeatedly said he was perfectly healthy. Irving underwent shoulder surgery at the end of the season in February and did not join the net at the start of the NBA’s re-art in Orlando, Florida.
Irving said that after the surgery, he would have to “make himself back.” On Sunday, he didn’t seem to have any physical limitations and finished with 18 points and four assists in Brooklyn’s pre-opening win against the Wizards.
It was also the first net game Irving was able to play with Durant.
“It’s a different show, it was a different phase, and it’s a new beginning in terms of what we’re creating,” Irving said. “And let’s move on with the pieces we have here. And that includes 7-11, so get to know us.”
The training camp, Irving said, has given him a chance to get to know his new teammates and coaching staff, including new coach Steve Nash. During a podcast hosted by Durant in October, Irving said he “doesn’t really watch.” [the Nets] As head coach. “
On Monday he amended the statement.
“Steve has been amazing,” Irving said. “It’s a kind of respect. I think I have to retract my comments from the head coach’s point of view a few months ago. But that’s it, man, we have such a great rapport. Everyone thinks we’re like us.” I coach each other to be good again, so I’m grateful for that. “
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