Iverson, Allen (1975-…), was one of the smallest players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He stood only 6 feet (183 centimeters) tall. However, his speed and athletic ability made him one of the NBA’s top scorers. For most of his career, Iverson played guard for the Philadelphia 76ers. He was traded to the Denver Nuggets during the 2006-2007 season and to the Detroit Pistons at the beginning of the 2008-2009 season. Iverson played briefly for the Memphis Grizzlies in 2009 and then rejoined the 76ers late in the year. In 2010 and 2011, Iverson played professional basketball in Turkey. He retired as a player in 2013.
Iverson was particularly effective driving to the basket. He led the NBA in scoring with 26.8 points per game for the 1999 season, which was shortened by a strike. Iverson also led the NBA in scoring for the 2000-2001 season with an average of 31.1 points per game, for the 2001-2002 season with an average of 31.4 points per game, and for the 2004-2005 season with an average of 30.7 points per game. Iverson also was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for the 2000-2001 season.
Iverson became a symbol of youth rebellion in the NBA with his cornrow hairstyle, tattoos, and baggy clothing. He was often criticized by the public and other players but won praise for his performance.
Iverson was born in Hampton, Virginia, on June 7, 1975. He starred at Georgetown University for two years before the 76ers made him the first selection in the NBA draft in 1996. Iverson was named the league’s Rookie of the Year for the 1996-1997 season. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
