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Philadelphia 76ers To Bring Back Iconic Jersey
- Oct 18, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; The number 6 is seen on the jersey of Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden (1) honoring Boston Celtic great Bill Russell during the third quarter of the game between the Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia 76ers just made a move that will trigger nostalgia through the NBA world, announcing the return of their iconic black uniforms. These aren’t just any throwback jerseys; they’re a direct link to one of the most electric seasons in franchise history, a time when a single player captured the soul of a city and took the league by storm.

Get ready to see the black, gold, and red threads that defined the Allen Iverson era once again. The team will debut the classic look on November 8th against the Toronto Raptors and wear it for 20 select games throughout the upcoming season. But this revival is about more than just aesthetics. It’s a calculated tribute to a legendary team and a moment that still resonates with Philadelphia 76ers fans a quarter-century later.

Why are the Philadelphia 76ers reviving the Iverson-era uniforms?

The decision to bring back these specific uniforms is a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the 2000-01 team’s incredible run to the NBA Finals. That season was magical for the Philadelphia 76ers. Allen Iverson won the league’s MVP award with a dominant season that lifted the team and the city’s spirits.

It was the year Iverson averaged a league-best 31.1 points per game, putting the team on his back night after night. It was the year Dikembe Mutombo anchored the defense, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors. Together, they spearheaded a squad that finished with a stellar 56-26 record and battled their way to the franchise’s last NBA Finals appearance. While they ultimately fell to the powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers, that one victory in Game 1, on the road, remains an iconic “David vs. Goliath” moment in league history.

By reintroducing these uniforms, the organization made note that fans have a personal connection with these jerseys. It’s a nod to the heroes of the past while inspiring the current roster, led by Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, to chase that same level of greatness.

A Look Back at the History of the Black Jerseys

First introduced in 1997, the black uniforms marked a radical departure from the traditional red, white, and blue the franchise had worn for decades. The design was bold and aggressive, perfectly mirroring the style of their new superstar, Allen Iverson.

The jersey featured “Sixers” emblazoned across the chest in a dynamic font, with a gold star dotting the “i” and a swooshing basketball underlining the name. The “76” logo on the shorts became just as recognizable. This look defined an entire generation of Philadelphia 76ers basketball, lasting until 2009.

For many, these jerseys are synonymous with Iverson’s crossover, his fearless drives to the hoop, and the unwavering heart he played with every game.

To complete the throwback experience, the team will also play on a classic-edition court designed to match the 2000-01 theme. For 20 nights, the Wells Fargo Center will feel like a time machine, transporting fans back to a golden era. The Philadelphia 76ers aren’t just selling jerseys; they’re selling memories, pride, and the hope that the fighting spirit of 2001 is about to be reborn.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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