Kawhi Leonard is widely recognized as one of the best players in this modern NBA. As a 4x All-Star, 2x Defensive Player of The Year, and 2x NBA Champion, his talent and mastery of the game is truly a marvel.
When asked about his personal favorite player, the Clippers star gave a response many didn’t see coming. Instead of Kobe or Jordan, Leonard picked Allen Iverson.
“Just his gameplay. How hard he played. He played both ends. Just seeing that team with the Sixers, bringing them to the finals and carrying them by himself. That just resonated with me. His will not to give up.”
“Just seeing him with that team with the Sixers, bringing them to the Finals & carrying him pretty much by himself. That just resonated to me how hard he played & his will not to give up. Obviously, his offense speaks for itself.”
– Kawhi Leonard on his love for @alleniverson. pic.twitter.com/bEEALZB3WS
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 11, 2021
Iverson was never able to win an NBA Championship, but his drive, passion, and dedication for the game was prevalent every time he stepped foot on the court. He was a fighter who used skill and will power to carry his team to wins.
By the time he retired in 2010, he was an 11x All-Star, 4x Scoring Champ, and 7x All-NBA level player.
It’s easy to see why he was such an inspiration for Kawhi.
