According to an NBC announcement this Wednesday, Allen Iverson’s no. 3 will join its rightful place among legendary names such as Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving and Charles Barkley when his jersey gets retired on the first of March next year.
The recently retired star was the 1996 NBA Draft’s first pick and played for the 76ers for 10 seasons. He had brief stints in Denver, Detroit, Memphis and Turkey and once more in Philadelphia before officially announcing his retirement this October.
The 6’0 point guard from Hampton, Virginia was often one of the smaller players on the court, but played with unmatched speed, dexterity and a “leave it all on the court” style to make him one of the most formidable players of the NBA. His cornrow braids, numerous tattoos and outspokenness (remember his rant about Practice?) also made him one of the most controversial and influential players of NBA history.
Iverson boasts the Rookie of the Year accolade, All Star status for 11 seasons and the Most Valuable Player award when he led the 76ers to the NBA finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. He also matches the great Wilt Chamberlain in the 76ers highest scoring average of 27.6 points a game.
Be sure to catch the jersey hanging ceremony during the March 1st game against the Washington Wizards at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.
(Image: Youtube)