Whether you call him ‘The Answer’, ‘AI’ or even ‘Bubba Chuck’, there’s one thing everybody can agree on when it comes to Allen Iverson: Transcendent.
Lived Up to the Hype
The top pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, Allen Iverson lived up to expectations during his legendary Hall of Fame career. A tenacious scorer, the 6 foot, 165 lb. shooting guard didn’t back down from anyone, even the giants of the game. He had made a name for himself with an iconic crossover that brought many defenders to a stand still – or to the floor. Iverson also brought a new style to the game with his cornrows and tattoos, ushering in a new hip hop culture to the NBA.
Allen Iverson, 76ers Reach NBA Finals
During the 2000-01 NBA season, Allen Iverson put together his greatest season ever. The fifth year superstar led the Philadelphia 76ers to a 56-26 record, winning the Atlantic Division title for the first time since 1989-90. Iverson averaged 31.1 ppg, securing his second NBA scoring title. He led the 76ers past the Indiana Pacers, Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks to win the Eastern Conference. The 76ers returned to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1983.
The 76ers faced off against the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers led by the dynamic duo of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. As tremendous as Iverson and the 76ers played all year, they ran up against a juggernaut Lakers team that had too much size and power. Although Iverson put up a Herculean effort in game 1 of the Finals, dropping 48 in a OT win on the road, it would be the only win of the series as the Lakers cruised in the next four to clinch their second straight NBA title.
Allen Iverson Accolades
Iverson’s tremendous season didn’t go unnoticed as he was voted the 2000-01 NBA MVP. He also was a First Team All-NBA selection and named to his fourth straight NBA All-Star team.