Sixers to retire Allen Iverson's number in March

Share

There aren’t many higher accolades in the world of sports than having one’s uniform number retired, never to be issued again. It’s a special honor usually reserved for a truly one-of-a-kind player, a distinction that could not be more appropriate for a six-foot guard from Georgetown, Allen Iverson.

Nobody could ever wear the No. 3 quite like Iverson did, and as far as the 76ers are concerned, nobody will ever have the chance. The team announced on Wednesday that the four-time NBA scoring champion will join the likes of Julius Erving and Wilt Chamberlain in the rafters at the Wells Fargo Center when his number is officially retired in a halftime ceremony on March 1.

Via the team’s press release:

Iverson is one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history despite his small stature (6’0 and 165 lbs). He led the 76ers to their first Finals appearance since 1983 and played in front of thunderous cheers and sold out crowds.  Known as “The Answer,” he is one of the greatest finishers in the game. He leaves a lasting legacy forever in the hearts of Philadelphia fans. With boundless talent, he was always exciting to watch and had a flashy style that endeared him to fans all over the world.

“Allen Iverson is, without question, one of the most iconic players to ever wear the Sixers uniform,” said Philadelphia 76ers Chief Executive Officer Scott O’Neil. “Allen left everything out on the court and no one could ever question his heart – he was relentless, fearless and pound-for-pound, was one of the greatest to ever play the game.”

Iverson also ranks among the top players in Sixers history in field goals made (3rd, 6,962), field goals attempted (2nd, 16,543), free throws made (2nd, 5,122), free throws attempted (2nd, 6,576), assists, (3rd, 4,385), steals (2nd, 1,644) and points (2nd, 19,931). During the course of his career, Iverson would go on to earn:

Iverson, who formally retired from professional basketball in October, was an 11-time All Star, three-time All-NBA first team and the league’s Most Valuable Player in 2001. He authored some of the greatest moments not just in 76ers history, but in Philadelphia sports history over the previous two decades. Now he'll become the eighth player in franchise history to have his number retired. There is absolutely no debate as to whether or not he deserves this.

Contact Us