The Cleveland Cavaliers took care of business against the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night, but one of the best moments of the night came when Kyrie Irving, who received a warm welcome in his return to Cleveland, and James Harden shared a reunion of their own.
During Cleveland’s 127-117 win at Rocket Arena, Irving and Harden, who sat out the game, were spotted catching up. The NBA captured the moment between the former Brooklyn Nets teammates and shared it on social media.
“KYRIE IRVING x JAMES HARDEN. Old teammates catching up in Cleveland!” the NBA wrote on X.
KYRIE IRVING x JAMES HARDEN
Old teammates catching up in Cleveland! pic.twitter.com/a6K6S6dOqC
— NBA (@NBA) November 15, 2026
Irving and Harden teamed up with Kevin Durant in Brooklyn across parts of the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, forming one of the most talked-about trios in recent memory. While injuries kept that group from reaching its full potential, the bond between the two guards has clearly remained.
Harden was one of several Cavs stars who did not suit up on Saturday. He, Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen were all held out after the team’s travel plans were disrupted by a nationwide ground stop of flights, which kept Cleveland from leaving Miami after Friday’s game. Evan Mobley also missed the contest due to injury.
Even without their stars, the Cavs got the job done. Tyrese Proctor stole the show with a triple-double of 24 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Mario Hezonja added 22 points, while Meleek Thomas chipped in 20. Thomas Bryant also posted a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
Irving did his best to lead a Dallas comeback, pouring in 34 points, 28 of which came after halftime. However, the Mavericks could not recover from an 18-point halftime deficit, and head coach Dusty May admitted afterward that his team lacked Cleveland’s desire and determination.
The loss dropped Dallas to 7-6, while Cleveland improved to 7-7 on the season.
The Cavs will look to build on the win when they host the Chicago Bulls on Monday.
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