Kyrie Irving Spotted Back on the Court Months After ACL Surgery

by Cristian Andal

Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving.
Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving. Photo: Getty Images.

Dallas Mavericks fans, here’s something to get excited about—Kyrie Irving is back on the hardwood! More than five months after undergoing surgery for a torn ACL in his left knee, the star guard was caught on video putting in work at the NBPA facility in New York.

The clip, shared by Overtime, showed Kyrie looking smooth and confident as he worked on his footwork, floaters, and crafty finishes—the kind of signature moves that have made him one of the league’s most electrifying scorers. While the Mavericks haven’t given an official timetable for his return, this is the clearest sign yet that his rehab is moving in the right direction.

Irving first suffered the injury on March 3, undergoing surgery on March 26 at New York’s Hospital for Special Surgery under the hands of Dr. Riley J. Williams, a renowned specialist who’s worked with numerous pro athletes. Now, five months later, Kyrie says he’s in a new phase of recovery, describing the process as “incremental growth” and assuring fans that he’s “healing up great.”

Typically, an ACL recovery takes anywhere from 8 to 12 months, which projects a possible comeback sometime in 2026. But according to Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, Irving is “ahead of schedule.” Still, Dallas isn’t about to rush their franchise cornerstone back before he’s fully ready.

Kyrie Irving.
Kyrie Irving. Photo: Getty Images.

This summer, Kyrie doubled down on his commitment to the Mavs by inking a three-year, $119 million contract, solidifying himself as one of the pillars of the team’s future. Harrison even praised Kyrie’s rehab work ethic, likening it to the legendary recovery habits of Kobe Bryant.

When healthy, Irving is still among the league’s elite. Last season, he averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 50 games, earning his ninth All-Star selection. While the Mavericks missed the postseason, they landed the No. 1 pick and drafted rising phenom Cooper Flagg, setting the stage for an exciting future pairing of star power and youth.

For Kyrie, though, the journey isn’t just about his body—it’s about his spirit. He’s thanked fans for their patience and support while framing his recovery as both a physical grind and a personal growth story.

The latest footage doesn’t guarantee a return date, but one thing’s for sure: Kyrie’s comeback is in motion. And when he finally steps back on the floor, expect fireworks.