Iverson Ends Retirement

In a move that surprised very few people, Allen Iverson decided to return to the NBA after announcing his retirement. Many were skeptical of Iverson's commitment to his retirement plans because he stated that he still felt strongly that he could compete at the highest level. He also said that he has tremendous love for the game and the desire to play.

The 14^th year man from Georgetown appeared to retire out of frustration when the Knicks decided not to make him a contract offer at the 11^th hour. Iverson retired shortly thereafter, but soon got into serious negotiations with his original NBA team, the Philadelphia 76ers.

Iverson, aka "The Answer," wanted to be traded in late 2006, and got his wish, as Philadelphia sent him to the Denver Nuggets. A little less than two years later, A.I. was dealt to the Detroit Pistons, and Iverson became a free agent during the 2009 off-season. He didn't get much interest due to the perception that he had lost a step, but wouldn't accept a reduced role. Iverson ended up signing with the Grizzlies for one year for just $3.1 million, but both sides agreed to part ways after three games.

Iverson didn't leave Philadelphia under the worst of terms, and with starting guard Lou Williams out for eight weeks after injuring his jaw, the struggling 76ers needed help at guard. The 34 year-old Iverson stands at just six feet tall and 165 pounds. His body has taken a beating over his career, but he still can help an NBA team win basketball games. He may not be able to score 30 points per game like he did in past years, but he did drop 17.4 points per game with Detroit last year.

The Sixers move to sign Iverson was a smart one for a few reasons. The Sixers offered him a one year contract that is not guaranteed for the year, which would pay him just under $650,000 if they guarantee his contract on January 10^th. This way, if Philadelphia feuds with Iverson, it will be easy to get rid of him. That gives this situation little downside, and the upside is that Philadelphia sneaks into the playoffs. Even if Philadelphia missed the playoffs, Iverson would sell tickets. The NBA is a game, but also a business after all.

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