The NBA has had a lot of hoopers, but only a few have truly left an impact bigger than their basketball career. A 6-foot kid from Hampton, Virginia, certainly part of the list. Allen Iverson was the fearless force who brought hip-hop to the hardwood and made being unapologetically yourself part of the game’s DNA. From his handles to crossovers to tattoos and cornrows, everything he did brought a cultural shift. And now we get a documentary about him to celebrate the NBA icon.
Recently, Prime Video shared the post, “The truth behind The Answer. ALLEN IV3RSON premieres October 23.” From the highest of the highs in the NBA world, to the lowest of lows in his personal life marred by bankruptcy. Everyone will get a fresh look at how the 76ers legend became a cultural phenomenon that is even respected today. Till then, let’s look at his nickname, which played a significant role in his growth and unmatched legacy.
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How Allen Iverson became the Answer
In 2003, a legal case against AI led to the findings of its historic moniker. In 2003, Jamil Blackmon, a family friend from Virginia, actually sued Iverson over the use of the nickname. Blackmon claimed that he gave Iverson the nickname in 1994 and was promised a reported 25% of the income from his Reebok deal. Since that never materialized, the legal proceeding came to light. However, the 2001 MVP won the case, as there was no written agreement in place. The book by Kent Babb, “Not A Game,” sheds more light on the event.
Back when they were not arguing in court, Blackmon was a close confidant of the Iverson family. He helped Allen Iverson significantly and would make sure that AI never lost his way. One day, they were folding their laundry, and the narrative of who will be the next star in the NBA was already circulating. Because remember, Michael Jordan had retired at the time, but no assurance of coming back. “The NBA, approaching the end of the Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Michael Jordan eras, faced nothing but questions. Blackmon blurted out his suggestion, and Iverson loved it.”
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That’s how Allen Iverson became The Answer to the NBA’s problems. In fact, the moniker touched AI’s heart immediately, and he inked it. On his left biceps, he had the bulldog logo with “The Answer” written above it. Signifying his mentality of never backing down at any time, despite his undersized frame. His rise to the top was quick, as he became one of the most popular and polarizing figures who had a tremendous impact on basketball, culture, and fashion.
Allen Iverson being resilient and rising up after losing it all
Standing up against any challenges is what has defined the 11x All-Star throughout his career. There was a time when Allen Iverson went broke despite earning $155 million from his NBA salary. In fact, his statement from the time was, “I don’t even have money for a cheeseburger.” These were Allen Iverson’s words to his wife during their divorce proceeding. Interestingly, his ex-wife, Tawanna Turner, handed him $61 as per the Washington Post in 2012. From that situation to a decade later, AI is back on its feet and doing what he does best.
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In October 2023, Shaquille O’Neal and Reebok made a major comeback announcement. The Lakers legend took over as the President of basketball operations, and there was only one he could trust to be his second in command. “And I was like you know what I need somebody that helped me build Reebok and AI was the only choice.” He was back with the brand, that one time he was leading as a player. After his MVP season campaign, Iverson signed a new 10-year, $50 million contract with Reebok.
Along with the money included in the first ten years, the shoe company also agreed to pay the star guard $800,000 every year for the rest of his life. Importantly, the deal with Reebok was done as they set up a retirement trust fund of $32 million for Iverson. The 76ers icon can only access this once he turns 55, in 2030. Reportedly, half of it will go to his ex-wife, due to an agreement during their divorce proceeding. An event in his life, which he won’t be proud of, but he made sure to rise up.