Who is Kyrie Irving’s father? Mapping the emotional journey of Irving’s NBA dream
Know all about Kyrie Irving's father Drederick Irving and their early struggles after the passing away of Elizabeth Irving.
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Drederick and Kyrie Irving (Getty)
Kyrie Irving has time and again sparked controversy with his somewhat bizarre actions here and there. The NBA star has surely had a stellar career and his professional basketball legacy is one to stand. Did you know that Kyrie Irving’s father was also a basketball player but had to put his dreams aside to focus on bringing up his children alone?
Irving’s dad, Drederick Irving, was originally born in the States and spent his early years playing basketball. His amazing high school career would pave the way for Drederick, that would see him accomplish himself as a college athlete at Boston University. He was majoring in Boston when Drederick came across another fellow student on the campus, Elizabeth.
Already a star volleyball player on the College team, Elizabeth shared the same passion for sports just like Drederick. Their mutual attraction would soon blossom into love, and the couple tied the knot shortly. A happy family, Elizabeth and Drederick were blessed with two adorable children – Kyrie and Asia.
Drederick would then move overseas to play professional basketball in Australia. But their happiness was short-lived. Kyrie’s mother, Elizabeth, was diagnosed with a terminal illness. She passed away when Kyrie was only about four years old, and Drederick had to bring up the children alone.
Having lost his mother at such an early age was a massive trauma for the kids. Realizing he should raise the children in the States where Kyrie could follow his passion for basketball, Drederick Irving gave up his professional career in Australia.
Also Read: What happened to Kyrie Irving’s mom? How did she die?
Kyrie Irving’s tribute to his father
Parenting two children on his own was truly challenging for Drederick Irving and he had to make sacrifices along the way. Kyrie has time and again acknowledged his father’s role in his professional career. Unbeknownst to many, Irving’s No 2 and 11 jersey that he has worn for most of his career is actually a homage to his dad.
Back in his days in college, Drederick Irving wore the No 2 shirt while playing at Boston University. This prompted Irving to choose No 2 to tribute his father’s basketball career. Where he did not wear the No 2, Kyrie chose 11, which is also a tribute to his father’s number (1+1=2).
Having had to deal with the grief of losing a parent at such an early age truly impacted the Irving siblings. Growing up without a mother changed Kyrie forever, but the NBA star remains grateful to his dad, who had to make many sacrifices along the way while parenting the two children alone.
Drederick Irving may not have had the basketball career he had dreamed of, but he has surely been a fantastic dad to his kids. Kyrie Irving’s father must be proud of his son, watching Kyrie don his number and dazzle on the NBA court, living his dream because of his son.
FAQs
Who is Kyrie Irving’s father?
Drederick Irving is Kyrie Irving’s father.
Did Kyrie Irving’s father play basketball?
Irving’s father played college basketball for Boston University and later played professionally overseas.
How many NBA rings has Kyrie Irving won?
Irving won one NBA Championship ring with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
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Anjum Ash.
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