Behind Dallas Mavericks point guard Kyrie Irving’s success are his parents, Elizabeth and Drederick Irving, who made a fair share of sacrifices in their lives.
Born in Melbourne, Australia, in March 1992, Kyrie grew up with an older sister, Asia, and a younger half-sister, London.
His father, Drederick, was a remarkable basketball player at Boston University, setting school records and becoming the school’s all-time leading scorer.
Not only that, he also played professionally overseas but couldn’t land himself an NBA deal.
As a result, he found profound fulfillment through his son’s success.
In an interview with ESPN, he said,
“This whole thing is a fairy tale. Kyrie always hoped to play in the NBA, just as I did… He made it, so I feel like I’ve made it, too.”
Via ESPN
Though Kyrie’s NBA journey has been remarkable, his early life was marked by significant challenges.
Kyrie Irving Lost His Mother At A Young Age
When Kyrie was just four years old, his mother, Elizabeth, tragically passed away, leaving Drederick to raise Kyrie and his sister Asia as a single parent.
Elizabeth, who was a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, left a mark on the athlete’s life despite her short time with him.
Born into the Lakota community, she continues to inspire her son’s connection to his Native American heritage.
A former basketball player herself, Elizabeth had accepted a scholarship to Jackson State University before becoming pregnant with Kyrie.
Though her basketball dreams were interrupted, her athletic spirit lived on through her son.
Kyrie’s connection to his mother remains profound.
He has honored her memory in numerous ways, including naming his daughter Azurie Elizabeth after her.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, he shared,
“Mommy, I gave her your name because I know you will bless her and our family the same way you blessed me.”
Via Facebook
After His Mother’s Passing, Kyrie Irving’s Father Became The Cornerstone Of His Life
Drederick Irving was instrumental in Kyrie’s basketball development.
He provided a strong foundation, guiding Kyrie’s dreams and supporting his ambitions.
After the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft, Kyrie said,
“My father is the one who told me to want more. My father is the one who told me not to settle.”
Via People
The elder Irving’s commitment to his children was evident through challenging times.
After Elizabeth’s passing, he worked on Wall Street and raised Kyrie and his sister, providing stability and support.
Drederick, who survived the 9/11 attacks, support continues to this day. He attends Kyrie’s games, offers advice, and remains a pillar of support.
Reciprocating his love, Kyrie signed his father as the first signature athlete for his ANTA shoe line.
Kyrie’s journey from a young boy raised by a single father to an NBA superstar is an inspiration to anyone who is going through the same ordeal of life.
Through the challenges of losing his mother at a young age and navigating the difficulties of sports and life, Kyrie has remained close to his family.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In 2004, his father, Drederick, remarried Shetellia Riley, who is currently Kyrie’s agent.
- The NBA star has also starred in movies and television shows, such as “Kickin’ It” (2012), “We Bare Bears” (2016) and “Family Guy” (2018).
- Although he learned to control the ball with both hands, Kyrie was actually born left-handed.
