The Allen “A.I.” Iverson Takeover: The Answer to the Game and to Fashion
The Young Game Changer
The legendary Allen “A.I.” Iverson, also known as “The Answer” story started as humble beginnings and is now known as one of the game’s greatest competitors. Allen Ezail Iverson, was born June 7th of 1975 in Hampton, Virginia to Ann Iverson. Growing up in an impoverished home his mother, Ann Iverson ensured all of Allen’s needs were met in spite of his absentee father, Allen Broughton. Iverson played football and basketball throughout his years of early education, and he became the athletic headline for Bethel High School and AAU. At Bethel High School Allen started as quarterback for the football team, rotating positions of running back, kick returner, and defensive back. In the winter, Allen Iverson started as point guard for Bethel High School’s basketball team. During Iverson’s junior year he lead the football and basketball teams to the Virginia State Championships, and was crowned The Associated Press High School Player of the Year in both sports.
When Trouble Arises
February 14th of 1993 Allen Iverson and a few of his friends were accused of being involved in an altercation with patrons at a bowling alley in Hampton, Virginia. Iverson was very well known throughout the state of Virginia and captured the attention of college recruiters nationally due to his many achievements. However, some were jealous of Allen Iverson and his gift to play the game of football and basketball. Allegedly, Allen and his friends were noisy and were asked to settle down numerous times. Another friend group that was bowling began a shouting fest with Iverson’s group of friends. Soon a fight broke out between Iverson’s friends who were African American and the opposing friend group who were Caucasian. Allen Iverson allegedly struck a woman in the head with a chair. As a result, he and three of his friends of color were the only individuals arrested. At the tender age of 17 years, Iverson was convicted as an adult of the felony charge of maiming by mob, a Virginia statue created to combat lynching. Allen Iverson pleaded innocent stating, “For me to be in a bowling alley where everybody in the whole place know who I am and be crackin’ people upside the head with chairs and think nothin’ gonna happen? That’s crazy! And what kind of man would I be to hit a girl in the head with a damn chair? I rather have ‘em say I hit a man with a chair, not a damn woman.” Allen Iverson was found guilty, and appointed a 15-year prison sentence, with 10 years suspended. Nevertheless, Allen’s family, friends, Bethel High School students and faculty, and people throughout the state of Virginia stood by Iverson and protested against the charges appointed to Allen and his friends. Many argued that this was a battle race and was charged unfairly, and to slow down Allen Iverson’s undeniable bright future. Little did the world know Iverson’s story was not over! After spending four months at Newport News City Farm, a correctional facility in Newport News Allen Iverson was shown mercy by Virginia Governor Douglas Wilder, and the Virginia Court of Appeals. These powerful forces overturned Allen Iverson’s conviction for insufficient evidence. A situation that was meant for evil, Iverson looked at it as a blessing and an opportunity to gain strength, that can now be added to his ongoing success story. According to Allen Iverson, “I had to use the whole jail situation as something positive. Going to jail, someone sees something weak in you, they’ll exploit it. I never showed any weakness. I just kept going strong until I came out.” Allen Iverson’s only obligation was to complete his senior year of high school at Richard Milburn High School, a school for students “at risk” instead of contributing to the athletic department at Bethel High School. The three years of Iverson’s high school career was proof enough that he was someone special, and was no one to reckon with on the field and on the court. Head Coach, John Thompson of Georgetown University’s men’s basketball team offered Allen Iverson a full scholarship to be a part of the Georgetown Hoyas basketball team.
Iverson, a Georgetown Hoya!
After just one season at Georgetown University (1994-95) the incomparable Allen Iverson was awarded the Big East Rookie of the Year award and named to the All Rookie Tournament First Team. This year was amazing for Iverson as he led the Hoyas to the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA tournament. The Hoyas did not take home the victory that year, losing to North Carolina. In year two at Georgetown, which would be Iverson’s final season as a Hoya (1995-96) Iverson led the team to a big East championship and to the Elite 8 round of the NCAA tournament, losing to Massachusetts. Allen Iverson finished his college career as a Hoyas’ all-time leader averaging 22.9 points per game, and named as a First Team All American. Following his sophomore year Iverson entered the NBA draft, being the first player to leave Georgetown University early for the NBA, under the direction of Coach Thompson.
The NBA Meets Allen Iverson
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 1996-97):
In 1996, Iverson was selected first by the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA draft. Enrolled at 6ft 0 inches tall Iverson was listed as the shortest first overall pick ever, in a league with a majority of significantly tall players. The 76ers recently finished a season at 18-64, prior to Iverson’s arrival. He assisted the 76ers in receiving a record of 22-60 (1996-97). One of Allen Iverson’s unforgettable highlights of his career is the 55-8 game against the Chicago Red Bulls. In this blowout, Iverson scored 37 points and crossed over the great, Michael Jordan! Braking Wilt Chamberlain’s rookie record, Allen Iverson played five games straight scoring at least 50 points, surpassing the original record of Wilt Chamberlain of 40 points in three-straight games. Iverson and the 76ers continued to have a great season, improving nine games to finish 31-51. Allen Iverson was named the NBA Rookie of the Year, averaging 23.5 points per game, 7.5 assists per game and 2.1 steals per game.
The Game After the Lockout (Season 1998-99):
After the NBA lockout (1998-1999) Iverson became the leader in the NBA, averaging 26.8 points. He was also named to his first All NBA team. The 76ers finished their season 28-22, and Iverson was on his way to his first playoff game! He was a starter for all ten playoff games and averaged 28.5 points per game. Throughout, the playoffs Iverson experienced numerous injuries, but did not allow this to stop his performance in the game and lead the Sixers to the number three-seeded Orlando Magic in four games. The 76ers did not make it to the NBA Championship and lost to the Indiana Pacers and in six games Allen Iverson and his squad lost in the second round. Before the season could end Iverson signed a six-year $70 million contract. The 76ers were continually led by Allen Iverson the next season and finished 49-33, automatically entering the playoffs. The Sixers earned the fifth seed, which was one spot higher, than the previous year’s seed. During the playoffs, Iverson averaged 26.2 points, 4.8 assists, 4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. That season, in the opening round the 76ers passed the Charlotte Hornets, but was eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the second round. By the conclusion of the season for the first time ever Iverson was selected to the Eastern Conference All-Star team, little did Allen Iverson know he would be selected eleven times consecutively. He also became the only player other than Shaquille O’Neal to receive a MVP vote in 1999. During this time, 76ers head coach Larry Brown, did not always see eye to eye with Allen Iverson and the 76ers tried to trade Iverson because of this. Allen Iverson was involved in a trade with the Detroit Pistons before Matt Geiger, who was included in the deal cancelled it due to his $5 million trade kicker. All in all, Larry Brown and Allen Iverson made effort to come together and take the 76ers to the NBA championship.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2000-01):
In the years 2000-2001 Iverson led his team to an all time high record 10-0 start to the season. He was named starter at the 2001 NBA All-Star Game, and won the MVP. That year, the Sixers had a 56-26 record and became best in the Eastern Conference. At this time Allen Iverson won his second NBA scoring title for averaging 31.1 points. He won the NBA title steals, making 2.5 steals per game, and was named NBA Most Valuable Player. Allen Iverson shocked people because of his consistency on the court and his ability to continually carry a team on his back at just 6 feet and 165 pounds. He was the shortest and lightest player to win the MVP award. Collecting 93 first place votes out of 124, he was also named to the All NBA First team for his accomplishments. During the playoffs, Iverson and the 76ers faced one of their hardest competitors, the Indiana Pacers. The Sixers beat the Pacers and advanced to the 2001 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers and the dynamic duo Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Since 1983, the 76ers was on their way to the finals. In the first game of the 2001 NBA Finals, Iverson reached a playoff high of 48 points and beat the Lakers 107-101, being the Lakers first playoff loss of that year. Allen Iverson was a showstopper, and few will forget how he historically stepped over Tyron Lue after making a game shifting shot. Iverson scored 23, 35, 37, in games 2-5. Sadly, the 76ers did not take the NBA Championship trophy for the 2000-01 season.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2001-02):
The 76ers hoped to take the Championship this year but were slowed down by ongoing injuries, making a 43-39 record, entering the playoffs by the skin of their teeth. The hopeful squad only played 60 games in the 2001-02 season but that did not affect Iverson’s performance quality. He averaged 31.4 points per game, his second scoring title. After losing to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs 3-2 Coach Brown complained about Allen Iverson missing team practices. Iverson’s famous response to this situation was, “I mean listen, we talking about practice. Not a game, not a game, not a game. We talking about practice.” Allen Iverson believed his absence of practices had no effect on his game and he brought forth his best efforts to win the 76ers a NBA championship.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2002-03):
After trading Dikembe Mutombo to New Jersey the Sixers’ offense and defense were not as strong compared to previous years. Iverson never fails, as he scored 27.6 points per game. Even though they were offensively and defensively weak the 76ers managed to make the playoffs with a 48-34 record. They defeated the New Orleans Hornets and their leader Baron Davis, the first round of the playoffs. Allen Iverson admitted that he met his match because point guard Baron Davis was one of the hardest competitors he’s faced. The Detroit Pistons in the sixth game (second round) later defeated the Sixers. 2003, after the playoffs loss, head coach, Larry Brown ended his coaching job with the 76ers. Brown and Iverson made statements claiming prior to Larry Brown’s departure they both made peace with one another and genuinely liked each other. This was not the last time the 76er and Coach Brown worked with one another. In 2004, Iverson was the co-captain of the United States Olympic men’s basketball team and Brown coached. 2005, Iverson argued that Larry Brown was, “the best coach in the world.”
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2003-04):
Next up, as the 76ers coach was Randy Ayers. Ayers fell short to gain any kind of relationship with the Sixers and was fired after a 21-31 start to the season. The Sixers was then given an interim coach, Chris Ford. Unfortunately, Ford and Iverson did not see eye to eye. Iverson was suspended after missing practice and fined for failing to notify Ford of his absence in a game because he was sick. Iverson refused to play after feeling “insulted” when Ford had Iverson come off the bench, as Iverson was slowly recovering from his injury. In the 2003-04 seasons Allen Iverson missed 34 games, and the Sixers missed the postseason, being the first time since 1997.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2004-05):
Under the direction of new head coach, Jim O’Brien, Allen Iverson and the 76ers was on the road to a comeback! With the help of new bodies, Andre Iguodala and All-Star forward Chris Webber Iverson won his fourth NBA scoring title with 31 points and 8 assists. He helped the 76ers get a 43-39 record during postseason. The 76ers lost to the ever so consistent Detroit Pistons and their head coach, Larry Brown. Iverson had three double-doubles, a 37-point, and a 15-assist performance in this series. Despite Jim O’Brien’s efforts in getting he 76ers back on their feet he was fired after one season. Maurice Cheeks, a former 76er took the place of O’Brien. Cheeks and Iverson had a connection, after Cheeks coached the team in the 2001 finals.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2005-06):
Iverson made a career high of 33.0 points per game, but the Sixers did not make it to the playoffs for the second time in three years.
Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2006-07):
The 2006-07 season began at 3-0 and then turned into a 5-10 record in 15 games. Allen Iverson was traded to the Denver Nuggets and ended his 10-year career with the Philadelphia 76ers. He went down in history to score the highest with 28.1 points, and places second on the all-time points list for making 19,583 points. The Philadelphia 76ers did not go to the playoffs until Iverson’s return in 2012.
Denver Nuggets (Season 2006-07):
December 19th of 2006 Allen Iverson went to the Denver Nuggets being the second leading scorer with his new teammate Carmelo Anthony, who was number one. December 23rd was Iverson’s first game with the Nuggets; he made 22 points and 10 assists in a losing game against the Sacramento Kings. Allen Iverson and the Denver Nuggets made it to the playoffs that year but lost to the Antonio Spurs. Iverson returned to the Philadelphia 76ers March 19th of 2008 to a sell-out crowd. The Denver Nuggets lost 115-113, but jersey number three, received a standing ovation.
Detroit Pistons (Season 2008-09):
On November 3rd of 2008 Allen Iverson was traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Detroit Pistons. This was a major change for Iverson, after wearing the number three for his entire NBA career he switched to number one for the Pistons. He scored about 24 points in his first five games. Due, to Allen Iverson’s ongoing back injury he did not play for the remainder of the season.
Memphis Grizzlies (Season 2008-09):
September 10th of 2009, Iverson was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, after signing a one-year contract. Iverson played three games for the Grizzlies, his stats were as followed; 12.3 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 3.7 apg, and 22.3 mpg. However, for “personal reasons” Allen Iverson decided to leave the team on November 7th, of 2009.
A.I. Returns Home to the Philadelphia 76ers (Season 2009-10):
Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith published a statement on his blog concerning Allen Iverson. Iverson stated, “I feel strongly that I can still compete at the highest level.” After making this statement, about a week later, on November 30th Allen Iverson agreed to a one-year non-guaranteed contract. December 7th, 2009 Iverson officially made his comeback in Philadelphia as a 76er and was welcomed by a standing ovation and sold-out crowd. His first game back was against the Denver Nuggets, his former team. The Sixers lost but Iverson had 11 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, a steal and no turnovers. One week later, Iverson came back full force, leading the Sixers in a win, when facing the Golden State Warriors. Shooting 70 percent from the field, ending the 12 game losing streak Iverson’s return was prominent. January 3rd of 2010, the 76ers faced the Denver Nuggets. In this game Iverson scored 17 points, made seven assists and won the game for the Sixers in a 108-105 victory. Allen Iverson’s gift never went unrecognizable and was voted as a starter for the All-Star Game, for the eleventh time. Iverson scored 23 points, shooting 56% from the field. In the midst of Iverson and the Sixers efforts, the Sixers lost 99-91 to Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers. Allen Iverson’s daughter became ill and he left the 76ers February 22nd of 2010 to give his four-year-old daughter his full attention. Iverson did not return to play for the remainder of the 2009-10 seasons and final game was a lost against Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls on February 20th of 2010.
The Breakup with the Game
On October 30th of 2013 Allen Iverson announced his official retirement from the love of his life, basketball. During the 76ers 2013-14 season home opener, Iverson received nothing but appreciation from Philadelphia. The entire arena roared with cheers and a standing ovation. Iverson’s retirement ceremony was a moment in history, and former Georgetown coach John Thompson and Sixers legend Julius Erving attended. Allen Iverson was choked up with his words but managed to say he’ll always be a Sixer until the day he dies. He anticipated his retirement and thought it would be “tough” but he described his retirement as a “happy” day. In November 2013, the Philadelphia 76ers announced the retirement of Allen Iverson’s number 3. There was an official ceremony March 1st of 2014 on game day against the Washington Wizards. 20,000 witnesses were present on this great day including Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and former team president Pat Croce.
When the NBA Seeks A.I. for Fashion Advice
Allen Iverson entered the NBA during the 90s, which was a pivotal time for hip-hop because it became popular among all generations. Hip-hop not only brought unique beats and raw lyrics but fashion came along with this specific genre. Hip-hop artists wore baggy jeans; over-sized shirts and sports inspired clothing. Iverson expressed himself through this Hip-hop movement. He adapted the 90s hip-hop style and made it his own and was often spotted in straight-back braids, gold chains and snapbacks. On his way to a game, A.I. wore 90s hip-hop clothing which was later referred as the “A.I. rule.”
When Basketball Met Hip-Hop
After taking his straight-backs out, Iverson could be seen in a freshly picked Afro. Iverson often paired his jerseys with jewelry as seen in this photo. His extravagant chain, watch, bracelet and diamond earrings are examples of the hip-hop culture clashing with basketball. Many people of this era mixed athletics with things such as the Afro and jewelry because that is what hip-hop artists wore in music videos and appearances. A.I. goes with the classic look, allowing his jersey to stand for itself. The jewelry adds to this look by personalizing it. His tattoos create a story, signifying who the real Allen Iverson is. The Afro, jersey, jewelry and tattoos are all apart of him. This was not a costume for him, but this is how he combined a sport he loves with a world he grew to know.
A Look Serving Many Functions
Allen Iverson’s look was versatile and no matter how many people tried to duplicate his swag no one could achieve this hip-hop persona like him. His hair could be seen in an Afro, straight-back braids, a fade, or even twists! The white t-shirt is a canvas and was used in multiple styles in the 90s. One could personalize their look by getting it airbrushed or leaving it like it was. Iverson decides to make a statement sponsored by his clothing company. The silver cross around his neck and diamond earrings could be easily understood that he has an abundance of money, just as many hip-hop artists exclaim in their lyrics. The sweatband, an athletic piece of clothing gives color to A.I.’s outfit. The white t-shirt and sweatband have many functions, athletic performance being one and fashion sense being another.
The A.I. Braids
The iconic A.I. braids were a hairstyle that was sought out during Allen Iverson’s reign. Whether his hair was simply braided straight back, in zig-zags or swirls Iverson’s braids came second to none. The baggy sweat suit was a laid back look for people in the 90s. This look wasn’t meant to really impress but was meant to look stylish without trying hard. The white sweatband brings out the white in the dark colored sweat suit Iverson is wearing. He accessorizes with his bling, bling!
“I Got My Fur on Feelin’ Like Jerome”
Along with baggy jeans, gold chains, and athletic apparel, oversized coats and jackets were very popular in Iverson’s time. He was just the first to bring it to the NBA. The royal blue coat has a beautiful fur and is bold just like its owner. Allen Iverson perfectly couples this fur coat with a blue and green snapback. The white t-shirt adds a bit of a contrast just as his durag underneath his hat. Durags were created to protect the hairstyle, however many rappers and athletes publically wore their durags as a part of their wardrobe. Once Allen Iverson was seen in baggy coats basketball players like Kobe Bryant and Carmelo Anthony, did the same.
“Snapbacks and Tattoos”
Iverson is very smart and continued to brand himself throughout his career. His hip-hop look made opportunities for him and made him more marketable. Iverson had an athletic clothing line consisting of his famous Iverson sneakers, shirts and bottoms. In this outfit he is representing his brand by wearing Iverson sneakers. A.I. had a way of making anything he wore look cool, that almost everyone had to have Iverson’s clothing. People respected his game so much that they wanted to be like him. The baggy white basketball shorts, and red V-neck shirt, are all articles of athletic clothing. The snapback could often be seen pulled towards the front, to either side, or towards the back. Iverson did it all, and his look could not be put in a box. His white snapback is the main accessory here so he tones down the jewelry, only using a smaller silver chain, watch, earrings, and bracelet. This is a look basketball players wore because of the basketball shorts, basketball sneakers, and athletic top. They could look hip and be ready to play ball at any moment.
“So Fresh & So Clean”
A collared shirt, snapback, a chain, and sunglasses? Iverson only dressed like this when he wanted to be at the top of his dressing game. Underneath his white collared shirt Iverson has on a white undershirt, also known as a tank top, or the wife beater. The white undershirt became a piece of clothing that was worn by itself or as its original purpose, an undershirt. Allen Iverson’s look here is simple and clean. The black shades and jewelry adds his personality to the look. We think it’s safe to say A.I. is “so fresh and so clean!”
Philadelphia 76ers Much?
Allen Iverson never had an outfit that did not color coordinate! The blue jeans, baggy of course were a hit. The baggy bottoms crossed over to not only jeans but also all types of pants. The white shirt decorated in stars and numbers, white and blue snapback, and red and blue sneakers all follow the same theme that scream patriotic. Iverson always shows pride of the 76ers, by wearing their colors, red, white and blue. He never failed to not obtain his reputation of dressing the best.
The Basketball Sleeve
Among other things like Iverson’s swag on the court and his unique swiftness in and out of the paint Allen Iverson had a way to captivate the crowd and his fan base. He began using sleeves during the 2001-01 season as his right elbow recovered from bursitis, an inflammation of one or more small sacs filled with synovial fluid. Players such as Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant adapted this look, as well as Allen Iverson’s fans. Iverson wore the sleeve after the injury healed; some believed it improved his shooting.
“I'm Ballin,’ Iverson on You”
On October 17th of 2005, then-commissioner of the NBA David Stern announced a league-wide dress code. NBA players could no longer wear baggy jeans, fitted baseball caps, XXXL white T-shirts, timberland boots and oversized necklaces (not even religious pendants). Many players were upset because they were no longer able to express themselves through the “A.I. fashion” they grew to learn and love. Some thought this was racist towards black basketball players and shade towards the hip-hop community. This dress code was not an option and was in full effect. All NBA and NBDL players were to follow this dress code. Business casual was worn on the way to games and after games because players conduct interviews, and go to promotional appearances. If a player violated this rule they were fined. Before the 90s business casual was worn and there was no concern of the players’ attire. But the 90s was an era of hip-hop influenced culture that changed the business look completely. In spite of the controversy Allen Iverson respectively followed the rules by taking his own spin on things. In a charcoal colored suit, and silver collared shirt, Iverson accessorizes with a silver hat and silver chain. A chain is present, but is smaller than his usual large chains. He also has on diamond earrings and a white durag underneath his hat. Allen Iverson made his own rules, and did not allow anyone to tell him “no.”
The Answer
Allen Iverson is a man far more than his athletic capabilities. He’s made mistakes but is not chained nor defined to his faults. Allen Iverson is a likeable guy who had fun and never took anything far more serious than his family and his game. He obtains something peculiar that still attracts fans all across the globe, especially Philadelphia! The city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has a greater appreciation for Iverson after his great efforts in assisting the 76ers for many years. Ranking 46th in the NBA of all time Allen Iverson will never be forgotten. He not only played the game but also allowed the game to become a part of him. We will never forget those mind blowing moments when Iverson did a crossover on Michael Jordan, dunked on Kobe Bryant, or stepped over Tyrone Lue. He created an atmosphere that one couldn’t help but respect and admire his athleticism, which can’t be imitated. Every team Iverson went to he was a major contributing factor and created historical moments on the court. Allen “A.I.” Iverson, also known as The Answer was indeed the answer, the answer to the game, and the answer to everyone’s fashion issues in the 90s and early 2000s. He is a legend, a success story, that can inspire anyone to not give up on the love of their life, whether it’s a million dollar idea or a basketball, just grind until you no longer have to introduce yourself.
Article Written by: Destiny Diggs
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