Despite only playing in his first season with the Boston Celtics, Kyrie Irving has nothing but good words to say about the franchise. He understands the history they have, producing some of the best players to ever play the game, and witnessed first hand on Sunday how they treated one of their legends, Paul Pierce, during his jersey retirement ceremony.

Irving was asked after their 121-99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers to give his thoughts about how the team gave honor to The Truth on a special day. Irving tipped his hat to them and gave a lot of credit for how they praise their former players.

“One thing to give credit to Boston (for) is man, they praise the legends,” Irving said. “Tonight's (Pierce's) night. I'm nothing but happy for him.”

Article Continues Below
More Boston Celtics News
Sam Hauser (30) reacts after a three point shot in the first quarter
Celtics rumors: The player with no trade ‘buzz’Colin Loughran ·
Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) dribbles during the first half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
NBA rumors: Could Bulls, Clippers be Celtics options for Anfernee Simons trade?Owen Crisafulli ·
Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) dribbles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets during the first half at TD Garden.
NBA rumors: Celtics want ‘Mikal Bridges-type’ trade package for Derrick WhiteColin Loughran ·
Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet (40) warms up before game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden. Spurs free agency
NBA rumors: Spurs to pursue key Celtics free agentOwen Crisafulli ·
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) looks to pass in the second half during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden
Celtics’ Jayson Tatum provides NSFW rehab update for Achilles injuryRishav Bhat ·
Oct 28, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Former Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade is honored at halftime during the game against the Detroit Pistons at Kaseya Center.
Why Dwyane Wade absolutely loves Celtics’ Anfernee Simons tradeRishav Bhat ·

Although he still has a long way to go in his pro career, Irving definitely has a chance to become a legend in Beantown as well. Since the season started, he has played at a very high level for the Celtics, making it possible for them to be the second-seeded team in the Eastern Conference standings so far.

More importantly, even with Gordon Hayward suffering a gruesome injury on opening night, Irving has proven that he can lead the team to greater heights with him as the focal point of their offense.

If he continues to play at this level, not just this season and in the years to come, Irving could one day see his jersey also retired by the storied franchise. However, that will depend on the success he'll be able to bring to the Celtics, as well as remaining loyal to them.