By John Wetzel, Sports Talk Philly staff
Sixers legend and Basketball Hall of Fame member Allen Iverson, 42, stepped back onto the court on Sunday for some professional three-on-three basketball.
For those unfamiliar with the recently founded BIG3 League, it's three-on-three style play featuring former NBA players. There are eight teams who play once a week on Sundays, over the course of eight weeks, followed by a two week playoff round.
Iverson's team, 3's company, took down the Ball Hogs on Sunday, beating them 61-51. Iverson had two points, one rebound and two assists in the game while going 1-6 from the field in limited minutes. AI made it clear after the game that fans shouldn't expect him to play very much this season, as the league is not hoping to become a side show, but rather create good basketball competition.
Besides, Iverson's role on the team is more of a coaching one, as opposed to a player role.
It's understandable that The Answer isn't as 'on point' anymore at age 42. His 1-6 shooting from the field backed that up. When asked how he was feeling after the game, Iverson responded "42. And retired," with a grin.
His one bucket was a pull-up jumper from the elbow that looked all too familiar though.
Allen Iverson's first BIG3 bucket pic.twitter.com/DdWIqA02Uz
— Rohan Nadkarni (@RohanNadkarni) June 25, 2017
As you can tell the fans still love them some Allen Iverson. They chanted "We want AI" constantly after he went to the bench. After the game, Iverson acknowledged that he needs to give the people what they want, but hopes the chants won't continue. His team plays next Sunday against The Ghost Ballers, expect more of those chants then.
Information regarding the teams, rosters, schedule, etc. can be found here.
Some notable players and coaches include:
Chauncey Billups-Player
Rashard Lewis-Player
Jason Williams-Players
Corey Maggette-Player
Jermaine O'Neal-Player
Charles Oakley-Player/Coach
Julius Erving-Coach