Kyrie Irving has insisted that he "gave it everything" for the Cleveland Cavaliers following confirmation that he has been ruled out for the rest of the NBA Finals.
The point guard has been diagnosed with a fractured kneecap which will keep him on the sidelines for three to four months, having struggled with knee tendinitis in recent weeks.
The 23-year-old wrote on Instagram: "I want to thank everyone for the well wishes. Saddened by the way I had to go out but it doesn't take away from being apart of a special playoff run with my brothers. Truly means a lot for all the support and love.
"I gave it everything I had and have no regrets. I love this game no matter what and I'll be back soon. To my brothers, you already know what the deal is."
The Cavaliers lost game one of the Finals against the Golden State Warriors in overtime.