Kyrie Irving’s abilities as a scorer are simply unmatched. Whether he’s playing with or without the ball, coming off a live dribble or from a standstill, facing up or posting up, he can do it all. Many regard him as one of the most skilled players of all time, and this level of skill was already apparent by the time he was just 22. But what exactly makes him so difficult to guard?

If you were to ask a group of NBA fans who the best ball handler of all time is, Kyrie would likely be the most common answer. His ability to keep the ball on a string while maneuvering through tight defenses is legendary. What sets Kyrie apart is how he pairs that impeccable ball-handling with the creativity of a street baller, often taking on entire defenses by himself.

Kyrie’s agility and coordination are exceptional. It’s not about raw power or explosive athleticism but his balance and footwork. When he executes his signature spin move, he combines these traits to create space and blow past defenders. Whether using spins as counters or to set up attacks, he showcases his mastery over his body.

His stop-and-go ability is equally deadly. Kyrie’s quick changes in pace leave defenders guessing. He reads their movements and exploits any slight shift in their balance, making him almost impossible to contain. This unpredictability is key to his success; he can burst out of any position and change directions at will, making it nearly impossible to predict his next move.

His finishing skills at the rim are no less impressive. Although his field goal percentage around the basket might not stand out initially, he compensates with an unparalleled versatility and touch. He’s equally adept with both hands, and his wide array of finishing angles allows him to maneuver around even the toughest rim protectors. Whether he’s going up for a layup or contorting his body mid-air, Kyrie has mastered the art of scoring through traffic.

Kyrie also knows how to create separation on his drives. One of his go-to moves is the ball fake, which throws defenders off just enough to create an opening. His creativity around the basket and his ability to stop on a dime further enhance his finishing ability, allowing him to score from angles that would be impossible for most other players.