14 Reasons Basketball Fans Should Respect Allen Iverson

Even though it's been four years since Iverson played in the NBA, he's still one of the greatest of all time.

1. Iverson had a flair for the dramatic.

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Now you see him, now you don't.

2. He literally broke his defenders' ankles.

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Nice try Daniels -- better luck next time.

3. And he even crossed up Michael Jordan.

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"The Answer" vs. "Air Jordan"

4. He didn't let the tabloids get to him.

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The impossible dream? Psh.

5. His streetball style transcended the game.

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6. And he rarely backed down from his competition.

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Even if it was against the Black Mamba.

7. Iverson's dunking abilities made you forget his size.

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BAM!

8. He was also the shortest player to win the MVP award.

At the impressive height of six feet.

9. He dedicated his life to basketball.

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"I played every game like it was my last" -Allen Iverson

10. And had one of the most famous soundbites in sports history.

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"Not a game not a game... We talkin' bout practice." -Allen Iverson

11. He's respected by today's NBA players.

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12. He loved his Philadelphia 76ers fans.

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"Every time I come to this gym I hear my favorite song, you know, ya'll voices." -Allen Iverson

13. His number will never be worn by another 76ers player.

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Retirement ceremony #3 in the rafters forever.

14. Love him or hate him, Iverson did things his own way.

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