Everyone has their own list of who they believe are the top basketball players of all time (including me). Many of the same names will appear on these lists, not because they’re “overhyped,” but because they’ve earned the right to be called GOATs.
While many fans are waiting for Prime Video’s three-part docuseries about NBA legend Allen Iverson, also known as “The Answer,” to premiere on October 23, he was asked by CBS News to name his top five NBA players.
His answer? Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Shaquille O’Neal.
Allen Iverson is one of the top NBA players of all time
A former NBA shooting guard/ point guard, Allen Iverson is a legend in his own right. He was arguably the most influential player on the court during his 14 seasons in the league. From his fresh cornrows to staying true to his style and culture, Allen introduced a new image to the league — one that was authentically and unapologetically him.
He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1996 (as the first overall pick), and wasted no time waking up anyone who was sleeping on him. In his NBA debut, Iverson scored 30 points and eventually broke Wilt Chamberlain’s rookie record of three straight games with at least 40 points. The success of his first season led to a Rookie of the Year honor, and he didn’t slow down. Other career highlights include:
(Amazon MGM Studios/Press Site)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997)
- NBA Most Valuable Player (2001)
- 11x NBA All-Star
- All-Star Game MVP Award (2001,2005)
- 3x All-NBA First Team (1999, 2001, 2005)
- 3x All-NBA Second Team (2000, 2002, 2003)
- 4x NBA scoring champion (1999, 2001, 2002, 2005)
In 2016, Allen was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Five years later, in 2021, he was honored as a member of the NBA 75th (NBA 75) Anniversary Team. The Philadelphia 76ers also retired No. 3.
Prime Video is sharing his story in a new docuseries
Allen Iverson was so cold that he had Post Malone out here calling himself “White Iverson” in a song that reached over a billion streams. His impact on the game and beyond is undeniable. Prime Video, in a three-part docuseries, will show how Allen’s “authentic voice and unapologetic expression of style paved the way for future generations and revolutionized the culture of the NBA.”
Viewers will gain insight into his upbringing in Hampton, VA, and his rise to stardom. It will also focus on how he continues to inspire the next generation. The production, titled Allen Iv3rson, has Shaquille O’Neal, Stephen “Steph” Curry, and Erick Peyton serving as executive producers and is Prime Video Sports presents it.
It will be available worldwide on the service on October 23.
Photo credit: Amazon MGM Studios/Press Site
