Allen Iverson Statue Unveiled to Honor NBA Legend's Legacy
ICARO Media Group
At the 76ers' practice facility, a statue unveiling ceremony took place to honor the iconic basketball player, Allen Iverson. The event was attended by various notable figures, including members of the Sixers' 2001 Eastern Conference championship team, NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, and four-time All-Star Rasheed Wallace, among others.
Sixers managing partner Josh Harris, co-managing partner David Blitzer, and coach Nick Nurse all expressed their admiration for Iverson and his impact on the sport. Iverson, visibly moved, fought back tears as he addressed the crowd, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for their support.
The celebration continued outside, where a sculpture capturing Iverson's unforgettable crossover move was unveiled on the 76ers' "Legends Walk." This sculpture marks the 10th installation on the walk, joining the likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, and other Sixers legends.
Family members and friends from Virginia, Philadelphia, and Charlotte, as well as longtime season ticket-holders, politicians, and former NFL and NBA players, were all present for this monumental moment. Former Sixers coach Larry Brown, former general manager Billy King, and former Sixers president Pat Croce also attended the event.
Billy King, reflecting on Iverson's reception, commended the player's ability to unify people from all walks of life, transcending boundaries of race, wealth, and gender. Iverson's unique style, with his tattoos, cornrows, and baggy shorts, endeared him to fans across the city and beyond.
Over his illustrious career, Iverson earned 11 All-Star selections and led the Sixers to the NBA Finals in 2001. He was named the NBA MVP that same year and was a two-time NBA All-Star Game MVP (2001, 2005). His contributions to the franchise are marked by his second-place standing in all-time franchise scoring, with a remarkable 19,931 points.
During the ceremony, Iverson emphasized that his achievements were not possible without the support of countless individuals who played a part in his development. The statue symbolizes the collective effort that shaped his life and serves as a reminder of the role each person played in his success.
The Sixers plan to further honor Iverson during their regular-season finale against the Brooklyn Nets at the Wells Fargo Center on Sunday. The event promises to be a fitting tribute to a basketball legend whose impact on the sport and the city of Philadelphia will never be forgotten.