Cleveland Cavaliers’ top pick Kyrie Irving is back in school, not playing overseas: NBA News
While many NBA players, including the rookies, have either headed or are considering playing overseas to keep earning until the lockout comes to an end, Cleveland Cavaliers rookie point guard Kyrie Irving has thought of something
entirely different.
This year’s number one draft pick, who left Duke University after just one year to make himself available for the 2011 NBA Draft, has gone back to school. The 19-year-old star has been pursuing a psychology degree and is also utilizing
the off time to nurse his injured toe. Due to that injury, Irving played only 11 collegiate games last year and the doctors have declared that his foot needs three more months to heal properly.
This injury is also one of the major reasons Kyrie Irving is not planning to take his talent overseas. Kyrie Irving will have a guaranteed contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers as soon as the lockout ends and if Kyrie aggravates
his injury while playing abroad; his near NBA future can take a hit.
“I’m going to try and stay in school as long as possible until the lockout is over. My dad still stresses education in my life. Me finishing up my sophomore year would be great, but me being able to play in an NBA game would be
better. I don’t want to go overseas. I’ve got a guaranteed contract here and I don’t want to risk injury over there.” Irving said.
However, to keep himself in shape, Irving has been doing light workout at his college. He is presently taking four courses per semester and a longer lockout will mean more time to study and full fitness.
However, he is supportive of the players who have been trying to go abroad and venture for foreign league.
“Players have to make money and at the end of the day, it’s a business. You have to weigh it in Kobe’s side also. He wants to play basketball along with all the other players. It’s his decision and we have to respect it.”
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