Allen Iverson

Allen Iverson is widely known for his fierce demeanor, unfiltered personality and the way he approached every game like it was his last. A skinny kid from one of the roughest parts of Virginia, Iverson found peace of mind on the hardwood.

Iverson is widely considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time, despite his relatively small stature and lack of a championship. He is celebrated for his incredible scoring ability, exceptional ball-handling skills, and his cultural impact on the game.

Iverson officially retired from basketball in 2013. In 2016, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Beyond his impressive stat sheet, Iverson left a lasting impact on basketball culture. From his tattoos and cornrows to his preference for baggy clothes and headbands, he unapologetically brought his full identity to the NBA — and inspired a generation to do the same. His use of arm sleeves and expressive body art became symbolic of both his personal battles and his place in the league as a cultural icon.

More than just a player, Iverson was a trendsetter. His influence on pop culture, fashion, and player expression remains unmatched. For many, Allen Iverson didn’t just play the game — he changed it.

He made his name at Bethel High School in Hampton, Virginia, where he led his teams to state championships in both football and basketball in the same year. In 2003, the school retired his jersey — one of the first to hang in the Bruins' gym.

Iverson played collegiately at Georgetown University, where he averaged a school-record 23.0 points per game over two seasons. His relentless drive and high-level play earned him first-team All-America honors as a sophomore, two Big East Defensive Player of the Year awards, and Big East Rookie of the Year as a freshman.

Iverson declared for the NBA Draft in 1996 and was selected No. 1 overall by the Philadelphia 76ers. He quickly silenced doubters, winning Rookie of the Year and eventually the league’s Most Valuable Player award in the 2000-01 season. That year, he led the 76ers to the NBA Finals.

Throughout his 14-season NBA career, Iverson racked up accolades: four scoring titles, 11 All-Star selections, two All-Star Game MVPs and a career scoring average of 26.7 points per game — one of the highest in league history. Pound for pound, he is often considered one of the toughest players to ever step on an NBA court.