Why Allen Iverson didn't accept offers to play in PBA

 

NBA legend Allen Iverson is in town this week for a charity game, not as a player but as a basketball coach.

 

The reception remained warm for "The Answer" in the Philippines, as memories of his exploits remained fresh in the basketball-crazy country.

 

Agent Sheryl Reyes, who organized the charity game, revealed that up until two years ago, there were offers for Iverson to suit up in the PBA.

 

No less than seven teams, according to Reyes, inquired about Iverson's availability then.

 

When asked why he didn't consider the offers, Iverson had a frank answer.

 

“I'm done in this stage of my life,” said the 11-time NBA All-Star. “I don't want to do it anymore.”

 

Iverson last played professionally in 2010.

 

“The passion that you saw from me throughout my career is gone,” said the former NBA Most Valuable Player, who led the Philadelphia 76ers to a finals appearance in 2001.

 

He had a stellar career in the NBA, fashioning out a distinguished career despite the lack of a championship to his name. The 76ers retired his jersey number 3 to honor the legacy he left to the team.

 

But now, Iverson said he wants to focus on his family after spending most of his time in the travelling and playing in the NBA in the last 17 years.

 

“I love just being a full-time dad, being with my kids. I lost a lot of time with my two older kids,” he said.

 

But Iverson admitted that his heart still beats for basketball, with a special place reserved for his 76ers team.

 

“I obviously miss the game, I love watching the game,” Iverson said. “I can't watch the Sixers play, I get emotional watching them.”

 

Asked for his advice on young Filipino players, Iverson drew on his own experience as an undersized player and emphasized the value of confidence and hard work.

 

“Everybody's telling there's no way I can make it to the NBA because of my size,” Iverson said. “To be successful here, that's everything.” — JST, GMA News