Allen Iverson honored by 76ers, speaks on resting players issue

Allen Iverson honored by the Philadelphia 76ers, speaks on resting players issue

Anyone who has been a Philadelphia 76ers fan for the past 20 years, knows how much former All-star player Allen Iverson is part of the city’s culture. Iverson was drafted in 1996 as the number 1 overall pick. He epitomizes a blue-collar kind of athlete that resonates with a city like Philadelphia.

A.I., one of the fastest, fiercest guards the league has ever seen was also one of the grittiest. His ability to play through contact and endure multiple injuries was a constant demonstration of his physical and mental toughness. Barely standing 6-0, Iverson was a force on the basketball court. His relentless attack on the basket allowed A.I to earn 4 scoring titles and a league MVP in 2001. That same year, Iverson led the Sixers to the NBA finals, only to lose in 5 games to Shaquille O’Neal and the L.A. Lakers.

During a half time celebration, this past Friday night at a game ironically against the L.A. Lakers at the Wells Fargo Center, Iverson was honored in front of a full house of Philadelphia 76ers spectators. As he walked onto the floor, fans were chanting “MVP”. Iverson then received his Hall of Fame Jacket from Philadelphia legend, Julius “Dr J” Erving. It was to commemorate his induction to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this past September. Iverson took the time to address Philly fans and once again tell them that his heart will always be with them in Philadelphia. Iverson, always known to wear his emotions on his sleeve got just the reaction you’d expect from fans in the form of cheering and applause.

A.I. also used the opportunity to jab at a younger generation of players and franchises in the NBA. Iverson stated the he would never have missed any games to rest. He also stated that hewouldn’t miss any games unless he was injured.

Iverson was referencing the recent habit that some teams have begun to implement in resting their star players during select away games. Most recently the Cleveland Cavaliers took heat for resting their three super-star players LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving on a road trip to Memphis, not even requiring the trio to travel with the team. Iverson stated that it’s the players responsibility to come out every night, play their hardest and put on a show for their fans.

The Cavaliers are the latest culprit of this practice, but did not create it. This practice began as far back as 2012 by Coach Greg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs. It was designed to reduce the wear and tear on the then aging superstar, Tim Duncan. However its frequency has become a point of contention with many fans in the NBA. Fans spend money on rising ticket prices to see their favorite teams and stars, only to be disappointed. It has become a topic of discussion on basketball sports websites and sports radio.

Many fans are hoping will be addressed in some way in the recent CBA negotiation. Hopefully Iverson’s call to awareness on this issue can help the league foster some kind of solution if teams continue to disappoint fans.