J.R. Smith addressed Irving’s absence in social media remarks, suggesting that Irving chose not to participate. His post appeared to indicate that Irving was invited but did not join the gathering, brushing off claims to the contrary.
The reunion featured several other stalwarts from that championship run, including LeBron James, Kevin Love, Richard Jefferson, Channing Frye, Tristan Thompson, Matthew Dellavedova, and Iman Shumpert. These players were photographed and showcased as part of the celebration of a decade since the Cavaliers defeated a storied opponent to clinch the title.
Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving publicly reflected on the milestone via Instagram, highlighting the unity and collective effort that defined that championship season. In a graphic tribute to the 2016 team — which included head coach Ty Lue — Irving emphasized the theme of solidarity: “All for one. One for all. We completed the mission together as brothers, and that’s all that matters to me.” The post underscored the sense of camaraderie that characterized the run to the championship.
Context around Irving’s absence has centered on the broader arc of his career since 2016. Irving spent the first six seasons of his NBA career with the Cavaliers, having been the No. 1 overall pick in 2011. He delivered a signature moment in the closing game of the 2016 Finals against the Golden State Warriors, hitting a pivotal shot that helped seal the Cavaliers’ victory and bring a championship to Cleveland for the first time in franchise history.
After the 2017 Finals, Irving sought a trade and moved to the Boston Celtics. He later played for the Brooklyn Nets from 2019 to 2023 before being acquired by the Dallas Mavericks, with whom he contributed to a run to the NBA Finals in 2024. His 2025-26 season was interrupted by a knee injury, limiting his on-court appearances.
Reasoning for missing the reunion has been the subject of some discussion. A well-sourced report suggested that Irving’s absence was due to scheduling obligations in the United States that could not be moved. Specifically, Irving reportedly had commitments tied to a prominent basketball development program in the NBPA circuit, which required his presence at events and mentoring sessions. According to sources, Irving did not RSVP to the European trip because his calendar was already full with domestic responsibilities.
At the reunion event, Irving was noted to have been joined by other veteran players at related basketball events in the region, underscoring the broader network of former teammates and peers who continue to influence the sport in various capacities. Dallas Mavericks assistant Phil Handy, who had previously served as an assistant with the Cavaliers during the 2016 title run, participated in related mentorship and coaching activities in the same period, reflecting ongoing connections within the basketball community.
The event and its surrounding coverage highlighted the lasting impact of the 2016 championship and the enduring relationships formed among players and coaches during that historic season. It also drew attention to the broader narrative of Kyrie Irving’s career, including his pivotal role in Cleveland’s title run and the chapters that followed with other teams.
For fans following the Cavaliers’ legacy and Kyrie Irving’s career trajectory, the reunion served as a reminder of the 2016 squad’s unity and their collective impact on the franchise’s history. The story continues to unfold as Irving’s career evolves and as former Cavaliers teammates reflect on a moment that remains a defining chapter in Cleveland sports.
