Nicknamed ‘The Answer,’ Allen Iverson had plenty questioning how a 6-footer could not only survive, but thrive, in a world of giants for 14 NBA seasons.  He left no doubt as to the size of his heart and the strength of his will as he became one of the most prolific scorers and toughest competitors of his generation. Allen Iverson is now the Vice President of Basketball for Reebok. 

Iverson’s road to the NBA all started at the Boys & Girls Club in Newport News, VA where he first honed his craft on the court.  There, he began to develop ball skills, speed, shooting prowess, and his infamous killer crossover that would pay dividends for years to come.  Allen says “the Boys & Girls Club means everything to me; I was once one of those kids. It’s where my dream started and without [them], I don’t know where I would be”.

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After a record-breaking inaugural season, Iverson was named 1997 NBA Rookie of the Year, becoming the first Philadelphia 76er to take home the honor.  Iverson would dedicate the award to his mother, Ann, handing her the heavy piece of hardware, followed by a kiss on the forehead and a warm embrace. ‘Most of all, I want to thank my mom,’ Iverson said. ‘She gave me the heart that I have right now, and she made me believe since I was young that I could do anything I wanted to do.’

Iverson has left an indelible mark on the sport and culture of the NBA.  Iverson was inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016 and was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary team, solidifying his standing as one of the best to ever play the game. Through toughness, fearlessness, and intense effort, Iverson was of a ‘people’s champ’ for basketball fans all over the world, who rooted for the little guy with the gigantic heart.