As one of the greatest players in 76ers history, it shouldn’t require much thinking for the franchise to hire Iverson for some kind of role within the organization.
Yet, somehow, after all these years, Philadelphia has yet to make an offer — and AI doesn’t get why.
In a chat with Bleacher Report last year, the Philly legend got real on his feelings towards the 76ers and about them not making room for him within their ranks.
“Everybody knows who I would rather help,” Iverson said. “I’m a Sixer for life. I got Sixer blood pumping through me. Everybody knows that I want to help that organization. I’ve been retired, what, 11 years? I don’t know how I’m not a part of that staff, some kind of way.”
“Even if it was that [consultant role]. I would be the happiest in the world. And the money thing? Ain’t got nothing to do with it. It’s just me being me, and me being a Sixer and wanting to help. I don’t know why nothing’s been put in place,” he questioned. “And I still love y’all. Don’t get it twisted. It’s all love, and it ain’t going nowhere, but I just… it’s something that I don’t understand.”
Iverson was never able to bring a title to Philly, but it doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be cherished just as much as any other generational talent. In his prime, he was an absolute killer on the court and inspired an entire generation of young ballers to be the best version of themselves.
Allen Iverson’s Influence In The Community Has Earned Him Plenty Of Support
For the Sixers not to be accepting and utilizing his experience and wisdom is almost disrespectful, and the team has been called out for it already.
“My response to that is the Sixers organization is the one organization that has no business taking this position,” said Stephen A. Smith, who personally covered the 76ers for years. “Allen Iverson is absolutely right. One thousand percent. And I haven’t spoken to the Sixers, but I will. Because this is some BS. I was not aware, I didn’t ask Allen Iverson about this. I wasn’t aware that he had absolutely no role with the Sixers organization. I don’t know what the hell was wrong with me. I didn’t think to ask. I assumed that they did have him and let me tell you why I assumed that.”
The 76ers have been a team in limbo recently with the departure of Ben Simmons and the poor play of James Harden. In the aftermath of all the chaos of last year, the team could really use a voice to steer them in the right direction.
Iverson could be that voice or, at the very least, might be able to find that voice. No matter your feelings on the guy as a player, it is undeniable that he has more than enough valuable perspective and knowledge to offer.
