On Wednesday night, the Philadelphia 76ers gathered for the team’s annual Gala, which benefits the organization’s Youth Foundation.
Every year, the Sixers’ roster and coaching staff show up to the red carpet event to help raise money for the foundation. This year, the team’s current roster was joined by numerous legends, including the former NBA MVP, Allen Iverson.
Donning a blazer and a Philadelphia Phillies ball cap, along with an iced-out “III” chain, Iverson looked forward to being a part of the special event put together by his former team.
“It’s important to me because I matter,” Iverson said on Wednesday. “It don’t sound too modest, but it’s the truth. If me being who I am can help in any way, then why not? I think it’s just a blessing, especially when it has a lot to do with kids. I’m just honored. I just love the 76ers for inviting me. That shows the respect and love that they still have for me, and I feel the same way.”
Iverson’s relationship with the Sixers dates back to 1996 when he became the face of the franchise after getting drafted No. 1 overall out of Georgetown. For the first decade of his career, Iverson became a household name in the NBA. After earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1997, Iverson developed into a superstar.
By the end of his career, his resume included 11 All-Star appearances, three All-NBA First Team nods, three All-NBA Second Team nods, and an All-NBA Third Team acknowledgment in 2006. As a member of the Sixers, Iverson led the NBA in scoring four times.
At this point, Iverson’s well into retirement. Since calling it a career, he found himself inducted into basketball’s Hall of Fame. He also had his number retired by the Sixers, which earned him a banner at the top of the Wells Fargo Center.
The Sixers have shown Iverson plenty of love in his post-playing days. The former superstar guard continues to exchange the support. The legend’s contributions, along with the rest of the franchise, proved to be a major success on Wednesday night. As the Sixers raised more than $1.9 million, they exceeded last year’s record-breaking total.
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