NBA

Brooklyn Nets Organization Ensures Full Support to Kyrie Irving Since He Is Fasting for First Time in Ramadan

by
Rishan Rai
May 3, 2021

After the Brooklyn Nets beat the Boston Celtics 109-104 on Friday night, Kyrie Irving confirmed he’s taking part in Ramadan, the Muslim holy month. It is not often you see Irving talk about his personal life.

Those who observe Ramadan fast every day of the month, consuming no food or liquids from sunrise to sunset. While it may be difficult for an athlete to fast and play but Kyrie didn’t say much about fasting beyond saying it’s an “adjustment”.

Our game report on Kyrie buying all his teammates hoodies as a way to support Vanessa Bryant’s Mambacita clothing line (all proceeds go to charity), and some more too on his observance of Ramadan, and how the Nets are trying to support him: pic.twitter.com/xC7pY67r23

— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) May 3, 2021

While this is the first time that Irving has discussed Islam publicly, he’s made reference to it a few times on social media. Initially, there were some concerns within the Nets camp because it is the first time Kyrie was trying this. But the organization’s main goal is to show Kyrie support of the team behind him.

Kyrie Irving fasts during Ramadan

Some suggested that fasting might affect Kyrie’s play. But right now, the reverse appears to be true. The Nets have had a fair bit of injury problems this season. With James Harden still ruled out, a lot of the offensive burden falls on Irving. Since the start of Ramadan, he has averaged 23.9 points and 7.8 assists while shooting 47-48 from the free-throw line.

The 29-year-old has always been a person to serve the community. And his words have been embraced by the Muslim leaders and laypeople. He has filled a void and joins the ranks of outspoken Muslim athletes who used their platform for justice.

Nets are ranked second in the Eastern Conference with a record of 43-22. And they will looking at the 2016 NBA champion to help them overtake the Philadelphia 76ers.

In today’s world where athletes are reduced to brands and endorsements, it is good to see Kyrie using his platform to take a stand and support the community.