Back in 2010, Allen Iverson left the Philadelphia 76ers to tend to the health issues of his daughter, Messiah. After leaving the team that he started his NBA career with in 1996, Iverson hasn’t been able to return to the league with no teams interested in his services.
Iverson tried to convince teams around the league that he still could contribute by showcasing his skills overseas. Unfortunately, Iverson didn’t have much of an impact in Turkey with Besiktas and is currently unemployed.
Now at 37 years-old, Iverson is attempting another NBA comeback. Much like the last few years, the four-time scoring champion hasn’t been able to land a job.
If an NBA team reached out at some point before next season, Iverson would jump at the opportunity. If not, the 11-time All-Star is reportedly considering playing in China according to the Chinese website NetEase translated by HoopsHype:
“I definitely want to return to the NBA, but if I can’t get back there, I’m hoping to play ball here (China).”
With regards to his team of choice, Iverson chose to reply obliquely, saying: “I’m not leaning towards any one team, and there’s no ‘first choice’ like what the others say.” However, Iverson points to the CBA as one of his backup options. “China is still one of my choices, but the team that wants me to join has got to show me that they really mean it, like ‘hey we really need you’.”
During his short stints with the Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies and return to the 76ers, Iverson struggled to reclaim his form as a perennial All-Star and one of the most dominant scorers in the league.
It’s uncertain at this point in Iverson’s career whether or not he can have an impact off the bench for an NBA squad. With no team willing to take a chance on the one-time NBA MVP, Iverson will most likely end up in China like another former NBA All-Star, Stephon Marbury.
Iverson is one of many unemployed former NBA All-Stars with Tracy McGrady, Michael Redd and Gilbert Arenas also looking for a new team.