Although Allen Iverson played his final NBA game in 2010, his influence on the league can still be seen today. The future NBA Hall of Famer recently sat down with ESPN’s Rachel Nichols to discuss his legacy, and one of the questions he was asked was which current NBA players resemble him the most.
It’s hard to compare anyone to A.I., but if most people were asked that question, they would likely try to rack their brain to think of an undersized guard who has to use grit and superior offensive skills to outshine their larger opponents. Players like Isaiah Thomas, Kyle Lowry, or even Steph Curry are far from perfect fits, but they would seem to make at least a little sense in that regard.
One comparison that doesn’t initially seem to make sense, though that with LeBron James, who stands eight inches taller than the 2001 NBA MVP and has probably a solid 75 to 80 pounds on him. However, when you hear Iverson’s explanation for why LeBron reminds him of himself, it all comes together.
The fight in him, that’s why I would say LeBron. LeBron ain’t got none of my game..but his heart, is all mine.
When thinking of who resembles him, The Answer doesn’t immediately go to style of play, but instead to desire, heart, and passion, which is where the comparison to the Cavaliers’ great comes into play. Other names that Iverson said play like him from that perspective include his former teammate Carmelo Anthony, along with Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook.
LeBron and Iverson have both endured their fair share of criticism over the years, but their passion for the game of basketball has never been questioned, which is why the comparison between the two NBA legends makes a lot more sense than it would initially seem.
(Via ESPN)
