Duke basketball star fires back at critics after poor performances

A former Duke basketball standout has fired back at critics following two bad outings. 

The Brooklyn Nets developed from a fun-loving, homegrown squad to the NBA’s most hated team after developing into the latest super-team, and a former Duke basketball star is firing back at the critics.

After acquiring Houston Rockets star James Harden via trade, many questioned the Nets’ ability to defend at a high level, and those early concerns have been justified.

Battling the worst-rated offense in the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Brooklyn surrendered 147 points in a double-overtime loss and 125 points in a regulation loss in back-to-back games in Ohio.

Kyrie Irving, playing in his first two games since his unexcused two-week absence from the team, scored 37 and 38 points, respectively, in the losses.

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However, as the Nets prepare to take the floor again on Saturday night, the former Blue Devil had a message for all those who are writing off the team in the early stages of the season.

Irving posted on his Instagram story, “Do not judge others. Without first judging yourself. There is no strength without knowing thyself.”

That was followed by various highlights and pictures of his sneakers from Friday night’s game.

Kyrie Irving then posted another statement to his Instagram on Saturday morning:

Brooklyn played with Irving and Harden in both losses while Kevin Durant played in Wednesday’s loss but did not play on Friday due to rest.

Duke basketball star still having a sensational season

Despite the limited amount of games, Kyrie Irving is still having a sensational season, posting a career-high with 29.4 points per game.

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Irving is also averaging 4.4 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 51.8-percent from the field, 42.3-percent from three-point range, and 97.0-percent from the free throw line.

The Brooklyn Nets will host the also struggling Miami Heat on Saturday night at 8:00pm EST (NBATV).