Friday night, Kyrie Irving published an open letter to ex-girlfriend Kehlani, shooting down rumors that she cheated on him with PartyNextDoor during the dramatic ordeal that eventually led to the singer being hospitalized after a suicide attempt in 2016.
While on the red carpet at the MTV Movie Awards, in support of his forthcoming “Uncle Drew” film, the NBA star addressed the open letter and clarified why he felt the need to publicly defend his ex.
"She’s an incredible person, and I don’t ever want to see anyone do anything harmful in her way. I heard from her and other people that people are coming to her shows, and doing just really obnoxious things," he said. "I don’t ever want to see anyone go through that, especially a female like that, and you know, she’s incredibly special. I want the focus to be on her, her career, and that’s it."
Irving also cleared up rumors about the two rekindling their romantic relationship in light of his post. He added that they weren’t and added that he and Kehlani are still close friends.
He was prompted on the importance of men’s advocacy on behalf of women, going on to express a need a for equality across all sectors including race, gender and sexuality.
“I think inclusion shouldn’t necessarily just be an idea, it should be a lifestyle no matter what," Kyrie said. "Sexuality, gender, race, it should all be equality at the end of the day. It’s part of my responsibility to really be one of those generational leaders who can be an advocate for that. I’m for love, peace, and harmony. I really want to see the world be a better place, and if I could do anything to change that, then I’m gonna do it."