Irving thanks Cleveland: 'It will always be love and respect'

The Kyrie Irving era for the Cleveland Cavaliers has officially come to an end following a blockbuster trade with the Boston Celtics that was finalized Wednesday.

As is the case with most talent leaving an organization after a prolonged stay, Irving took to social media to post a proper goodbye to the city of Cleveland, Cavaliers fans, and the organization that selected him first overall back in 2011 after six productive seasons:

"My special thank you to Cleveland" *Link in Bio. My love extends way beyond the court I have for Cleveland and it will always be a place thats special because of the great people and experiences. The Ups and downs, we stand and fight no matter what the circumstances are, and that's what being in Cleveland embodies, it is all Love and a whole lotta pride. To the incredible individuals I've met who support the Cleveland organization and help allow us as Players to feel a special bond to the State/City and shared countless moments with, keep being YOU and know that my appreciation is eternal. Thank you From my whole being for being there as I was a 19 year old kid coming into the league, to now where I start another step in the journey as a 25 year old Evolving man. It will Always be Love and respect Cleveland. "The journey is always the Reward" #KyrieWick

A post shared by Kyrie Irving (@kyrieirving) on Aug 31, 2017 at 10:04am PDT

Irving averaged 21.6 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.4 rebounds during his run with the Cavaliers, helping the franchise win its first championship in 2016 by knocking off the Golden State Warriors in an epic seven-game series comeback.

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Irving thanks Cleveland: 'It will always be love and respect'

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