Allen Iverson is one of the greatest small guards to play in the NBA, but it is not his play that is gaining national attention. As reported by Stephen A. Smith of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Iverson has personal issues that have him reeling. He is falling hard too! Last week it was reported that he would no longer be allowed to continue with the Philadelphia 76ers because of the illness of his daughter and the organization wanted to go in another direction. In addition, his wife filed for divorce in Atlanta, citing that their 8 1/2 year marriage is “irretrievably broken.” She also filed for full custody of their 5 children and is seeking child support and alimony.
The story that has come out today is about Iverson’s alcohol and gambling issues. It has been reported by Stephen A. Smith that Iverson has been banned from Atlantic City, NJ casinos and some in Detroit. His life has been categorized by some people that know him as, “out of control.” Stephen A. has covered A.I. for years and knows him personally as he says, that Allen Iverson is in need of guidance.
As a life coach for professional athletes, this is the path that many athletes take. It’s an unfortunate set of circumstances for Allen Iverson, but the reality is that his core values are not intact and that he is reaching out for help. Financially, Allen Iverson has four homes in three cities that have not sold. He has homes in Philadelphia, Detroit, and two in Denver. Allen Iverson has made approximately $156 million in salary alone. There are reports that he has had some of his cars repossessed, but this is speculation and I have no way of confirming whether or not these rumors are true. What I can say is that this path that A.I. took was very predictable. He thought he was invincible and could overcome life’s pitfalls. He lived a hardcore life and his personal life and his physical body are now paying for it. He has pushed everyone away that could help him including his wife. It’s a sad day for basketball fans and for the NBA as well. These leagues need to do a better job of helping their stars. An athlete’s life should not spiral out of control like Iverson’s without intervention.
