From Dallas to the Himalayas: Mavericks Fan Reaches Everest Summit in Kyrie Irving Jersey, Gets Response from Star Guard
— Dallas Texas
From the hardwood of the American Airlines Center to the icy peaks of the Himalayas, one Dallas Mavericks superfan has taken team pride to new heights — literally. In a stunning display of dedication and passion, avid Mavs supporter James Whitaker, 34, reached the summit of Mount Everest last week while proudly wearing Kyrie Irving’s #11 jersey. The feat caught the attention of none other than Kyrie himself.
Whitaker, a Dallas native and lifelong Mavericks fan, trained for nearly two years to tackle the world’s tallest mountain. But for him, the climb wasn’t just about personal achievement — it was about representing his city and his team on the highest stage possible.
“I’ve followed the Mavs through every season, good and bad,” Whitaker said via satellite phone shortly after descending from the 29,032-foot peak. “Wearing Kyrie’s jersey was my way of saying, ‘We rise together.’ It felt right to carry that spirit to the top of the world.”
Photos of Whitaker standing triumphantly at the summit, draped in the iconic blue and white #11 jersey against a backdrop of swirling snow and sky, quickly went viral. Social media lit up with praise and awe, and it wasn’t long before the moment reached Irving himself.
The Mavericks star, who helped lead Dallas deep into the playoffs this season, responded on Instagram with a heartfelt message:
“Unreal. Mad love and respect to you, James. That’s legendary energy — all heart, all passion. You took MFFL [Mavs Fan For Life] to the top of the world. Salute!”
The message, which included a repost of Whitaker’s summit photo, has since garnered over 1.2 million likes and sparked an outpouring of admiration from fans around the globe.
Back in Dallas, Mavericks team officials said they were planning a special in-game tribute to Whitaker during the upcoming season, and there’s talk of inviting him to a home game as a guest of honor.
“It’s the kind of story that reminds you what sports are all about,” said Mavs head coach Jason Kidd. “Inspiration, unity, and the power of believing in something bigger than yourself.”
For Whitaker, the journey was worth every icy step.
“People climb Everest to find perspective,” he said. “I found mine — and it’s wearing blue and white, with‘Irving’ on the back.”
