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Kyrie Irving has addressed Anthony Edwards’ viral comments about wanting to guard him during the Western Conference Finals. Edwards made headlines when he said, “My matchup is going to be Kyrie … we’re going to see what I can do against him.”

Irving then came out extremely aggressively in Game 1 and finished with 30 points, five rebounds and four assists on 52 percent shooting. He also helped the Dallas Mavericks to an impressive Game 1 win on the road.

Postgame, Irving addressed Edwards calling him out during a light-hearted discussion with the Inside The NBA panel.

“I used it as motivation,” he said with a laugh, referring to Edwards’ comments. “When I was sitting at home and I saw it, I was just like, ‘It’s just a nod of respect’. And then also, I knew what type of game it was going to be for Game 1, and also for the rest of the series.

“So, you’re right, I was at home with my family watching Game 7 and Ant comes out and says, ‘I got Kyrie’. But also, that’s a no-fear mentality, and that’s why we love Ant. So coming out tonight, I knew that he was going to pressure me a little bit.”

Irving also showed Edwards respect in his postgame press conference.

“As a peer, man, I love that,” he said. “It’s nothing better. When Ant was a little younger, I’m sure he was watching me and when he was in high school I was watching him…that no fear mentality that he has is why I love him.”

Irving vs Edwards will be undoubtedly an intriguing matchup to watch when they do battle again in Game 2 on Friday.

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