WATCH: Throwback to LeBron James' iconic response to Kyrie Irving's trash-talking

Despite winning the NBA championship in 2016 for Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James and Kyrie Irving’s camaraderie seemed distant when they faced off as rivals in 2021. James, representing the LA Lakers, squared off against Irving, was then a key player for the Brooklyn Nets. This meeting was punctuated by a memorable moment of trash-talking, which has resurfaced on social media again.

During this heated game, Irving didn’t hold back in taking a jab at his former teammate’s free-throw shooting abilities. Known for his mercurial personality and competitive spirit, Irving sarcastically implied that James wasn’t the best free-throw shooter on the Lakers. LeBron, never one to shy away from banter, quickly clapped back with an iconic response, telling Irving to "Shut your lil a** up."

Here is the viral video:

LEAKED Audio Of Kyrie Irving Trash Talking LeBron James In 2021👀:



Kyrie: “That’s your best free throw shooter?”



LeBron: “Shut your lil a** up” pic.twitter.com/2IxRoq2nXN

— LegendZ (@legendz_nba) September 11, 2024

The exchange, caught on camera and later shared widely on X (formerly known as Twitter), became an instant hit among fans. It highlighted the intense competitive spirit between the two NBA superstars, despite their shared history. However, despite the on-court tension, the pair remained respectful of each other off the court. Their professional rivalry did not seem to spill into their relationship.

Will the iconic duo of Kyrie Irving and LeBron James unite again?

As time passed, both players saw their careers take different directions. LeBron James continues to lead the Lakers, while Kyrie Irving has since moved on from Brooklyn to the Dallas Mavericks, where he helped them reach the NBA Finals.

Interestingly, before his move to Dallas, Irving was rumoured to have considered reuniting with James in Los Angeles. Though a reunion never materialized, the prospect of the two once again joining forces intrigued fans, and the possibility continues to linger in the background of NBA trade rumours.

This throwback to the 2021 showdown serves as a reminder of the competitive edge and mutual respect shared between two of the game’s brightest stars, even when they find themselves on opposite sides of the court.