It’s been an ignominious few years away from pro basketball for former Philadelphia 76ers legend, NBA MVP, and 11-time All-Star Allen Iverson.
Iverson has seen over $150 million in career earnings evaporate while alienating friends and loved ones, going through a messy public divorce, and battling alcoholism on the long tumble from the top of his sport to the rockiest of rock bottoms.
Rumors have circulated about Iverson’s egregious spending habits, of his penchant for domestic abuse, and of infamous rants in which he was reportedly intoxicated. His many demons and foibles were laid bare in a tell-all biography published earlier this month, and it paints an unflattering and fairly upsetting picture.
Larry Brown, Iverson’s former coach in Philadelphia and longtime friend and confidant, talked this week about his desire to see Iverson get back on his feet, and suggested the 76ers organization could help him do so by initiating him into their front office, possibly even as assistant general manager.
“Just teach him about the organization and let him figure it out, figure out how he can help,” Brown said. “He can certainly judge talent. He certainly has people’s respect. Kids will listen to anything he said. He’s certainly bright as hell.”
Iverson himself has openly coveted a role with the franchise since at least March, and with Brown lobbying on his behalf, he’s continuing to campaign for a potential job.
“That would be one of the top honors for me. That would be one of the biggest blessings,” Iverson told reporters Thursday, after a ceremony in which the Sixers unveiled their new uniforms.
“I may not know everything about physical talent or anything like that, but I have a sharp mind when it comes to that look, being able to look into somebody’s eyes to tell if they’re going to be in the foxhole with you tonight or if they’re not.
“To me, I’m a basketball genius, and I really believe that, so at any capacity I could help this franchise, that’s what I’m going to do, whatever they ask me to do.”
Iverson also made clear that, despite his and Brown’s impassioned pleas, he has no expectations.
“Don’t put any pressure on the franchise to make a move or anything like that,” he said. “If it happens, that is what God wants. If it doesn’t, I am still going to be here right with them, riding with them.”
Smirfitts Speech 