Irving wears 'PRESS' shirt at NBA All-Star Game honoring Gaza journalists

2026-02-16 - 08:55

Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving delivered a powerful statement at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, wearing a shirt emblazoned with "PRESS" across the chest accompanied by a tag dedicating the gesture to journalists killed in Gaza. The inscription read: "Dedicated to our beloved journalists in Gaza showing the world the truth," amplifying awareness of the heavy toll on media workers covering the conflict. Continued Advocacy for Palestine The 33-year-old eight-time All-Star has consistently used his considerable platform to draw attention to Palestinian suffering, previously making headlines by wearing a keffiyeh during a press conference to highlight what he termed genocide in Gaza. Monday's visual statement during one of basketball's most-watched events extends his record of advocacy, bringing the plight of Gaza's journalists to an international sports audience. Sports as Platform for Awareness Irving's gesture underscores the role athletes increasingly play in raising awareness about global humanitarian crises. By choosing the All-Star Game—a showcase watched by millions worldwide—the veteran guard ensured that the sacrifices of journalists documenting conditions in Gaza received prominent attention. The tribute highlights both the dangers faced by media workers in conflict zones and the power of athletic platforms to amplify messages beyond traditional news outlets.