Kyrie Irving reflects on personal growth and Kobe Bryant's influence ahead of NBA Finals against former team

Kyrie Irving is returning to Boston for the NBA Finals. He might face some tension with Celtics fans due to past incidents. Irving has expressed some regret for his previous actions at TD Garden. He says he will try to control his emotions better this time. Irving has been behaving well since joining the Dallas Mavericks. However, Celtics fans may still try to provoke him during the Finals. Irving was traded to the Celtics in 2017 but left after two seasons. He faced criticism for his performance during the playoffs. Irving acknowledges the upcoming games in Boston will be intense but sees it as a positive relationship with the fans. He appreciates Celtics fans for their knowledge and respect for the game. Irving has been focused on his game since joining the Mavericks. He has been performing well in the playoffs. Irving paid tribute to Kobe Bryant, calling him his mentor and expressing how Bryant's influence has helped him grow as a person. Irving is grateful for the lessons he learned from Bryant on and off the court. Irving's transformation in Dallas has been notable. He has led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2011. Irving and his teammate Luka Dončić have been a strong duo in the playoffs. The Mavericks face a tough challenge against the Celtics in the Finals. The NBA Finals start on Thursday, June 6, in Boston. Irving's behavior and performance will be closely watched during the series. Fans and analysts are curious to see how Irving will handle the pressure and emotions during the Celtics-Mavericks matchup.