Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has been a polarizing figure for years now.
Some have deemed him the biggest troublemaker in recent NBA history, and one could argue he could make a case for being the most unpredictable and high-maintenance star we’ve seen in years.
Nonetheless, everybody in the league — his former teammates and coaches — and those who actually got to know him have always attested to his giving nature and loving character.
That was once again on full display during his latest appearance at a youth camp.
In a clip shared by ClutchPoints, the multi-time All-Star encouraged the kids in attendance to take care of their mental health and not suffer in silence, telling them that it’s just not worth it (via The Dunk Central).
"Please don't suffer in silence. You don't want to suffer in silence. It's not worth it. This is a memo to all young kids. Please take care of your mental health."
– Kyrie ❤️
(h/t @ClutchPoints )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 13, 2023
Kyrie has a long history of philanthropy and has always been in close touch with the community, yet some of those things get overlooked as he’s often tangled up in controversies.
Whatever the case, this is perhaps the most positive message one could put out there and props to professional athletes for shedding light on this key matter more often nowadays.
The taboo and stigma of athletes being superhuman and that showing emotions equal weakness is way outdated, and mental health should be at the top of most people’s priority lists right now.
And coming from a young man who’s heard and read all kinds of things about him and his character since he entered the league, he definitely knows what he’s talking about; it’s not easy being a professional athlete, especially in the social media era.
NEXT: Kyrie Irving Calls Out 2 Media Personalities Over Criticism
