Wow. Just last week Allen Iverson released a statement announcing his retirement and a few days later Sixers Coach Eddie Jordan denied rumors of Iverson making a comeback to the Philadelphia franchise. But now things have changed.
In a surprising turn of events, Allen Iverson has re-signed as an official player of the Philadelphia 76ers. The NBA star signed a 1 year deal with $1.3 million dollars earlier this week. In a press conference Thursday afternoon (Dec 3), the teary eyed and noticeably emotional 34-year-old guard talked about the progression of his career and how happy he is to be back in Philly as a 76er. His first game is Monday and they’ll be playing against the Denver Nuggets.
“I have a love for them and they love me and it’s evident,” Iverson said. “When I had the opportunity to come back here [voice cracking]. I couldn’t turn it down.” Iverson remained emotional for much of his 35-minute press conference in which he was joined by Sixers president and general manager Ed Stefanski.
Stefanski said that Iverson is expected to make his debut in Monday’s game at the Wachovia Center against one of Iverson’s former teams, the Denver Nuggets. According to Stefanski, Iverson wasn’t guaranteed any minutes or a starting spot, but . . . “We brought him here to play basketball,” Stefanski said after the press conference.
Iverson, who complained about coming off the bench in his last two stops in Detroit and Memphis, insinuated that he would be content with any role with the Sixers. “All I told him [Stefanski] was give me an assignment and I will help you win basketball games,” Iverson said.
SOURCE
Continue reading for the video (waterworks show up about halfway through – 2:05)
