During an appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show, Iverson declared Jordan as the GOAT over James, while acknowledging that fans ultimately determine their own personal consensus on who stands as the best player of all time in the NBA.

“The way I look at it, Michael is always going to be the GOAT to me … and LeBron to me, I feel like if you go in the dictionary and you look up ‘basketball player,’ you’ll see LeBron James,” Iverson said. “And the whole GOAT thing to me I think a lot of times it gets out of hand because I think a lot of times people will take away from only player and what they did, to boost up the other player.”

“That’s not what you do. I feel like a lot of times, people get caught up in the whole GOAT thing, but your GOAT is your GOAT. You have your opinion to name anyone your GOAT if you want to … you’re not wrong by saying anyone’s your GOAT. I had my fans say I’m the GOAT all the time. I don’t agree with them because I think it’s Mike.”

Allen Iverson’s explanation

A fascinating aspect of Iverson‘s response is acknowledging that his own fans have called him the GOAT. However, to him, the distinction belongs to Jordan, emphasizing that every fan holds their own answer for their own reasons. It remains a personalized distinction for every NBA supporter.

Another key point Iverson makes is that people often get caught up in the James versus Jordan debate, which ultimately serves as a subjective exercise—providing one of the more nuanced takes on the conversation.

Iverson’s reaction to LeBron joining Philadelphia

The recent arrival of James raised expectations across the board, particularly for Philadelphia fans like Iverson, who reacted enthusiastically while wishing the best for the NBA franchise.

The 76ers legend could not contain his excitement upon learning James signed with the team. “I LOVE LIFE!! GOD don’t play about me and mine,” Iverson wrote on Instagram.

In a recent interview with ABC7 News Bay Area, Stephen Curry was asked to name a past player he would have liked to share the court with. Rather than choosing just one, he named two illustrious figures. “Allen Iverson, that’s the first name popped in for sure… Probably Magic. You put me, Magic and AI, I think that’d be a solid three-on-three team.”

For many fans, it came as a complete surprise that the Warriors star did not opt for either Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant. These legends not only made a significant impact on an entire generation but also entered the GOAT debate and became iconic figures for their respective franchises. However, Curry’s choice is not entirely unreasonable. Both Iverson and Magic Johnson have left indelible marks on NBA history impacting directly the culture of basketball.

Despite being one of the league’s best players, Allen Iverson often does not receive due recognition for his impact. Over 12 years with the Philadelphia 76ers, he consistently maintained an impressive scoring average of 27.2 points, along with contributing 6.1 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game. His exceptional play earned him the MVP award in 2001, and he claimed the scoring title four times.

Magic Johnson is considered one of the best point guards in NBA history. Over his thirteen-year career, he left a significant mark on the Los Angeles Lakers, leading the team to five championships and earning three MVP awards along with three Finals MVP awards. His impact on the franchise’s culture was clear, as he became an icon in the city by forming a dynamic offensive duo with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

While the selection of both legends stirred some controversy among fans, Stephen Curry focused on more than just picking the two best players. The Warriors star selected players he believed could seamlessly complement each other on the court. By harnessing his own scoring prowess alongside Iverson’s disruptive steals and Magic Johnson’s unparalleled creativity, he envisioned a combination that could truly make a game-changing impact.

During an appearance at an event for the No Flukes Foundation Youth Camp, Allen Iverson emphasized the importance of training. In the middle of his speech, he revealed who he considers to be the best player in the world. “…I swear you have to, you have to practice to become whatever you’re trying to become in life. You think Shai (Gilgeous-Alexander) didn’t practice? To become the MVP and the best player in the world, you have to practice,” he said.

Despite just clinching his first MVP award, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has reached to average more than 30 points per game for three consecutive seasons. This consistency proves it is no coincidence—he has been one of the league’s most reliable players. In the 2024-25 season, the Oklahoma City Thunder star achieved his best scoring performance, averaging 32.7 points per game. With his performances, he lead the franchise to their first-ever championship.

Despite Allen Iverson’s impressive performance, many fans have not embraced his comments, arguing that naming Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the best player in the world overlooks Euroleague stars who have not even joined this discussion. Additionally, Nikola Jokic’s presence in the debate is significant. He has competed against players from both continents and continues to dominate on the court, which means this debate cannot be taken lightly.

Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander faces golden chance to cement his NBA legacy

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has already made history with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but his age and the roster surrounding him put him in an ideal position to leave a lasting legacy. Unlike other players, Gilgeous-Alexander benefits from a team filled with young talent capable of making a real difference. For that reason, he has a prime opportunity to establish an enduring NBA legacy by leading a dominant era akin to the Bulls in the 1990s.

LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, and other legendary players share a common trait: they have demonstrated their dominance by securing multiple championships while playing pivotal roles. If Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can achieve this feat with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he could significantly elevate his legacy in the NBA.

The Thunder demonstrated the power of home-court advantage, as fervent support from their fans fueled their championship ambitions that began long before the season commenced. Oklahoma City, seeking to capture their first title since 1979, faces a formidable challenge from the Indiana Pacers, the unexpected powerhouse of the tournament.

After drawing first blood in the series, the Pacers put forth a valiant effort in Game 2, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s tenacity. Despite his leadership and a collaborative team effort, the Thunder showcased why they are the top seed in the Western Conference, standing above teams like the Los Angeles Lakers.

Post-game analysis quickly spread across social media, highlighting Gilgeous-Alexander’s extraordinary feat. With a total of 72 points across the first two games of the Finals, he became the highest scorer in this pivotal series stage, further cementing his status as a crucial player in Oklahoma City’s championship quest.

In a remarkable performance, Iverson‘s record of 71 points scored over the first two games of the NBA Finals remained unchallenged for years until Shai surpassed him and Jordan‘s previous mark of 69 points. Gilgeous-Alexander continues to demonstrate his exceptional prowess this season, one in which he was rightfully recognized with the MVP award.

After their recent victory, Gilgeous-Alexander addressed the media to offer insights into the win. During the press conference, a Brazilian journalist inquired about the impact of the team’s support from the fans on their mentality, asking whether it was beneficial or detrimental.

“It helps a lot throughout the playoffs,” Gilgeous-Alexander commented, reflecting on the crowd’s influence. “The fans get louder every game, and I’m not sure how they do it. Playing in front of them really makes the games easier for me.”

As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare for Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers, both the team and their passionate fan base aim to seize a crucial advantage. This game represents a significant stepping stone towards their ultimate goal: capturing the NBA Championship.

Among the many fans and celebrities reacting to the thriller was Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade. He posted his live reaction to Haliburton’s game-winning shot on social media, yelling, “Superstar! Superstar! Superstar!” in celebration of the buzzer-beater.

Hours later, Wade took to social media again to explain why Haliburton now belongs in the NBA’s superstar conversation. “Haliburton is a f***ing superstar,” Wade said. “I just witnessed one of the greatest games I’ve ever seen as a fan. First of all, this is one of the greatest Finals games—OKC vs. Pacers. There’s no doubt anymore. He’s a superstar.”

Wade praised Haliburton’s ability to deliver under pressure, especially given the off-night he was having. “You don’t understand—when you’re out of rhythm, not getting your looks, no free throws, nothing flowing… to take and make that shot? He’s cold,” Wade added. “Allen Iverson would probably call him and say, ‘You’re a cold mo****f***er.’ I’m buying a jersey. I want it signed. This guy has it. His clutch gene is what we all wish we had.”

Haliburton had a tough start to the night, as the Pacers turned the ball over nine times in the first half—one of the worst first-half stat lines in NBA Finals history. That came just days after Haliburton made history with 30 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in a turnover-free playoff game. He still finished Game 1 with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Indiana’s win came not just from Haliburton’s brilliance, but from a balanced team effort. Rick Carlisle’s team saw five players score at least 14 points, a crucial factor in overcoming the early deficit. The Pacers became the first team since Carlisle’s 2011 Mavericks to erase a 15-point hole and win in the NBA Finals, as noted by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.

Despite Charles Barkley backing the Thunder’s bench, it was Indiana’s reserves who delivered when it mattered most. The Pacers’ second unit constantly swung momentum throughout the game. Obi Toppin stood out with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 25 minutes, becoming Indiana’s second-highest scorer of the night.

Indiana’s performance underscored why they’ve emerged as legitimate title contenders. The Pacers don’t rely on one superstar to carry them—they thrive off collective effort and high-level execution. Game 1 proved just how dangerous they can be when their depth and leadership align in the clutch.

“I never got to see Michael Jordan live; I’ve only seen him on TV and in documentaries. But that’s kind of what I experienced with Allen Iverson,” Williams explained during a recent interview on Run It Back, drawing a surprising parallel between the Bulls legend and the Sixers icon.

Lou clarified that the comparison wasn’t about their on-court performances, but rather about the impact their mere presence had on spectators. “It was like a real rockstar… people screaming and yelling. Real fanatics,” he added, highlighting the electric atmosphere that Iverson created, much like Jordan did during his career.

Williams, who played alongside Allen for two seasons, recalled his firsthand experience with the Sixers star. The first stint came early in Lou’s career, between 2005 and 2006, just before Iverson was traded to the Denver Nuggets. They later reunited in 2009-10, during the legendary guard’s final season in the NBA with the 76ers.

“I played with Kobe (Bryant), I played with James Harden, but when I traveled with Allen Iverson, it was a completely different experience compared to those other guys,” Williams remarked, underscoring the unique impact Iverson had on his teammates and fans alike.

The legacy of Iverson

Allen Iverson’s time with the Philadelphia 76ers was marked by exceptional talent and undeniable impact. From the start of his career, he displayed elite skills, averaging 23.5 points in his rookie season and earning the 1997 NBA Rookie of the Year award. Over the years, Allen became one of the NBA’s most influential players, making 11 All-Star appearances, winning the league MVP in 2001.

Iverson’s on-court success didn’t stop there—he won the NBA scoring title four times and finished as the league’s steals leader three times. His contributions to the game were so profound that the 76ers retired his No. 3 jersey, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.

Iverson’s great unfinished business

Despite a Hall of Fame career, Allen Iverson’s time in the NBA ended without an NBA championship—a void he was never able to fill. His closest brush with the title came in the 2000-01 season when he was named MVP and led the 76ers to the NBA Finals. However, the Sixers’ bid for a championship was thwarted by the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, who took the series in a dominant 4-1 victory.

With dazzling moves and a unique shooting touch, Iverson carved out his place among the league’s elite. These days, he enjoys watching games and frequently shares his insights on various platforms, discussing both his career and the evolution of the league.

However, seven years ago, during an interview with Michael Rapaport on Fox Sports Big 3, Iverson reflected on his prime years and a moment when he felt disrespected by then-NBA commissioner David Stern. Specifically, he took issue with the league’s 2005 dress code policy, which he believed unfairly targeted players like him.

“I felt disrespected in that way [referring to the 2005 dress code rule], but not for having an attitude or anything like that, because I don’t care,” Iverson said. “I feel like some of these outfits nowadays, if the commissioner or whoever’s in charge saw just one of them back then, they would have said, ‘Oh, okay, we need to implement another dress code.'”

Iverson couldn’t believe how NBA players dressed those days

Allen Iverson has always been outspoken about his style, and he didn’t hold back when discussing today’s NBA fashion trends. In the conversation with Rapaport, the Hall of Famer shared his thoughts on how players dress before games. “I’m watching what these dudes are doing, and I was like, ‘I would never be this bad right here,’” Iverson said.

He went on to reflect on his signature look and how it defined his era. “I carried my crossover all the way into the Hall of Fame. That’s what mattered to me,” Iverson said. “But I don’t want to be one of those guys complaining about how they dress now. I don’t want to be sitting here like I’m the grumpy old man.”

The Sixers legend was never a fan of the NBA’s dress code policy, emphasizing that his style was always an authentic reflection of himself. “I wore what I would wear to the gym if I wasn’t in the NBA,” Iverson explained. “This is just how I dress, always has been, always will be.”

Iverson recalls his rocky relationship with Celtics fans

Playing against the Boston Celtics was never easy for Iverson, and it wasn’t just because of the competition on the court. The passionate Boston crowd made their feelings known every time he stepped into TD Garden. “I remember going there, and the only thing I heard were boos all over the place,” Iverson recalled. “Every time I touched the ball—didn’t matter if I was taking it out of bounds—all I heard was: ‘Boo! Boo!’”

What made it even more surreal for him was seeing Celtics fans wearing his jersey while still heckling him. “I was like, ‘How are all these people in here wearing my uniform and still booing me?’” Iverson said. But over time, he came to appreciate the dynamic. “It’s one of those love-to-hate-you things,” Iverson admitted. “They’re fans of mine, but at that moment, they bleed green.”

As the Lakers struggled against the Sixers, LeBron led the team in an effort to keep them competitive. However, JJ Redick pointed out that Bronny James didn’t perform as expected. The Lakers also faced an uphill battle without Anthony Davis, who was limited to just 10 minutes of action.

Despite the disappointing result, LeBron was met with a surprise at the end of the game from Allen Iverson’s mother, Ann Iverson. She reconnected with James and reminisced about the time her son watched him play back in 2002, before LeBron had even entered the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cameras captured the emotional embrace between James and Ann Iverson after the game. She reflected on LeBron and Allen’s early years before they became NBA stars. “I was talking to your manager—she’s out of town—but I told her about the time you all started playing. I didn’t care if nobody else saw you guys. I stood by the locker room, and you all came out with your shorts and everything,” she recalled.

LeBron’s gesture toward Allen Iverson’s mother

Beyond their conversation, LeBron also showed a heartfelt gesture toward Ann Iverson. She asked him to sign several family photos, and without hesitation, James autographed each one. He then carefully placed them in a safe spot, ensuring they were well-preserved.

LeBron also took a photo with Iverson’s mother, creating a lasting memory. The moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising his humility and appreciation for those who supported him early in his career. As Ann Iverson recalled, she witnessed LeBron’s first steps on the court long before he became one of the NBA’s greatest players.

LeBron reflects on Lakers’ loss to Sixers

Following the Lakers’ tough loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, LeBron shared his thoughts on the game. Speaking to the media, he addressed the impact of Anthony Davis’ early exit and how it affected the team’s performance.

“When our best player goes out, it’s always challenging, especially in the middle of a game,” James said of Davis. Without their star big man and with several teammates struggling, including Bronny, the Lakers couldn’t keep up with the Sixers, who continued their push toward the playoffs.

Former Sixers coach Larry Brown shared a fascinating anecdote during an interview with NBC Sports, recalling a visit Iverson made to the SMU Mustangs in University Park, Texas. “He spoke to our team, and it was the most unbelievable talk I’ve ever heard,” Brown recounted. “Our kids were spellbound. And he was so open and honest with them.”

But one moment from that conversation stood out the most. Brown described how one of the players asked Iverson a seemingly straightforward question: “Who’s the best player to ever play?” Allen’s response left everyone stunned. “Who do you think he said? Allen Iverson.”

The 2001 Hall of Famer and NBA MVP surprised not only Brown but also the SMU players by naming himself as the greatest player in NBA history—placing himself above legendary contemporaries and past icons.

“’I’m not disrespecting Michael (Jordan) or Magic (Johnson) or Julius Erving or any of those guys,’” Brown recalled Iverson saying. “’I couldn’t have done what I did at my size if I didn’t feel that way.’” Standing just 6 feet tall, the guard’s confidence in his abilities reflected the mindset that fueled his incredible career—a career that saw him defy the odds to become one of the most impactful players the league has ever seen.

Allen Iverson’s impressive resume

Iverson’s confidence in his place among the all-time greats stems from a career full of remarkable achievements. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft by the Sixers, Iverson went on to leave an indelible mark on the league over 14 seasons.

His accolades include being named 1997 NBA Rookie of the Year, 2001 NBA MVP, an 11-time All-Star, a four-time scoring champion, and a three-time steals leader. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016, and his iconic No. 3 jersey was retired by the 76ers in 2014.

Iverson’s other answers in the GOAT debate

Although Iverson picked himself in that particular moment, he has provided different answers to the GOAT debate over the years. “LeBron, I think, to me is the best overall basketball player that we’ll ever see. If you look in the dictionary and look up basketball player, there’ll be a picture of LeBron,” he said in an interview with Andscape.

Iverson also held Kobe Bryant in high regard. “I’ve never seen anyone as competitive as him but Mike [Jordan],” he noted. “When people talk about the best players in the world, I say Mike, and I say Kobe. And then everybody else.”

Iverson’s favorite NBA player

While Iverson has expressed admiration for LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, he’s been clear about who his favorite player is: Michael Jordan. “Mike was everything to me. He gave me the vision. He made me want to play basketball. He’s my everything,” Iverson told Andscape.

“I wanted to actually be like him, like the commercial, ‘Be Like Mike.’ I really wanted to be him. I’m still starstruck every time I see him. I’m still nervous every time,” Allen said. “Because he’s Mike to me. He’s my guy. So there’ll never be anyone at the top of my list besides Mike.”

Basketball is a game of dreams: epic nights, legendary plays and moments etched into the collective memory. Yet, in this narrative, not all heroes achieve the fairytale ending of lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy.

There are players who, despite dominating the court and becoming indispensable names in NBA history, never claimed a championship ring. But does a player’s legacy rest solely on winning a title?

Karl Malone, carrying his team through sheer strength and determination; Charles Barkley, redefining the power of the interior game with his unmistakable charisma; or Allen Iverson, leading us into a revolution of style.

Top 13 NBA players without a championship

Charles Barkley

Teams: Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets
Achievements: 1993 MVP, 11-time All-Star, Hall of Fame inductee

Charles Barkley, known as “Sir Charles”, dominated the court as a power forward despite being undersized at 6’6″. His relentless rebounding, scoring, and outspoken personality made him a fan favorite.

His career highlight came in 1993 when he led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals, earning league MVP honors. However, Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls proved too formidable, defeating the Suns in six games. His influence extended beyond stats, as he became a cultural icon, both on and off the court.

Karl Malone

Teams: Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers
Achievements: 2-time MVP (1997, 1999), 14-time All-Star, 2-time NBA Finals runner-up

Nicknamed “The Mailman” for his consistency, Karl Malone ranks second on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 36,928 points. His pick-and-roll partnership with John Stockton was the cornerstone of the Utah Jazz’s success in the 1990s.

Despite back-to-back Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998, Malone’s Jazz fell to the Chicago Bulls. In a final attempt to win a title, he joined the star-studded Los Angeles Lakers in 2003-04 but faced defeat against the Detroit Pistons in the Finals.

John Stockton

Team: Utah Jazz
Achievements: All-time leader in assists (15,806) and steals (3,265), 10-time All-Star, Hall of Fame inductee

John Stockton epitomized the traditional point guard role with his unparalleled court vision and defensive tenacity. As the NBA’s all-time leader in assists and steals, his legacy is cemented in basketball history.

His synergy with Karl Malone made the Jazz perennial contenders, but like his teammate, Stockton’s championship dreams were dashed by Jordan’s Bulls in consecutive Finals appearances.

Allen Iverson

Teams: Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, others
Achievements: 2001 MVP, 11-time All-Star, NBA Finals appearance (2001)

“The Answer” was a cultural phenomenon, known for his fearless scoring and swagger. Allen Iverson carried the 76ers to the 2001 NBA Finals, delivering a memorable Game 1 victory against the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers with a 48-point performance.

Despite his efforts, the Lakers, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, claimed the series. His influence extended far beyond basketball, inspiring a generation with his unapologetic authenticity.

Patrick Ewing

Teams: New York Knicks, others
Achievements: 11-time All-Star, NBA Finals appearances (1994, 1999)

Patrick Ewing was the anchor of the New York Knicks throughout the 1990s, known for his dominant post play and shot-blocking prowess. He led the Knicks to the 1994 Finals, where they fell in seven games to the Houston Rockets.

In 1999, injuries sidelined him during the Finals, and the Knicks lost to the San Antonio Spurs. Despite the absence of a championship, he remains a symbol of grit and resilience in New York sports history.

Elgin Baylor

Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Achievements: 10-time All-NBA, 8-time NBA Finals runner-up

Elgin Baylor revolutionized the game with his athleticism and scoring ability, averaging 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game over his career. He reached the NBA Finals eight times with the Lakers but never won a championship.

His retirement early in the 1971-72 season marked an ironic twist, as the Lakers went on to win the title that year. Baylor’s contributions to the game remain immortalized, making him a pioneer of modern basketball.

Reggie Miller

Team: Indiana Pacers
Achievements: 5-time All-Star, NBA Finals appearance (2000)

Reggie Miller, one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, built his reputation on clutch performances. Known for his rivalries with the New York Knicks, his heroics included iconic moments like his 8 points in 9 seconds during the 1995 playoffs.

He led the Pacers to the 2000 NBA Finals, but they fell to the Lakers. Miller’s loyalty to Indiana and his unparalleled three-point shooting define his legacy.

Steve Nash

Teams: Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, others
Achievements: 2-time MVP (2005, 2006), 8-time All-Star

Steve Nash orchestrated some of the most electrifying offenses in NBA history as the engine of the Phoenix Suns’ “Seven Seconds or Less” system. Renowned for his passing, shooting efficiency, and basketball IQ, Nash earned back-to-back MVP awards.

Despite multiple deep playoff runs, including several Conference Finals appearances, Nash never reached the NBA Finals. His influence on the modern game is evident in today’s fast-paced, three-point-heavy style.

Dominique Wilkins

Teams: Atlanta Hawks, others
Achievements: 9-time All-Star, legendary scorer and dunker

Nicknamed “The Human Highlight Film”, Dominique Wilkins dazzled fans with his explosive athleticism and scoring prowess. A nine-time All-Star, he was one of the most prolific scorers of the 1980s.

Despite his individual brilliance, his Hawks teams often fell short in the playoffs, never advancing to the Finals. Wilkins’ aerial artistry and fierce competitiveness remain hallmarks of his career.

Tracy McGrady

Teams: Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, others
Achievements: 7-time All-Star, 2-time scoring champion

Tracy McGrady, or “T-Mac”, was an offensive juggernaut capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. His most iconic moment came in 2004, when he scored 13 points in 33 seconds to secure a miraculous victory. Injuries often derailed his playoff hopes, and he never advanced past the Conference Finals. Nevertheless, his talent and highlight-reel plays remain unforgettable.

Carmelo Anthony

Teams: Denver Nuggets, New York Knicks, others
Achievements: 10-time All-Star, prolific scorer

Carmelo Anthony’s scoring versatility made him one of the NBA’s most feared offensive players. He led the Nuggets and Knicks to playoff success but never reached the Finals. Anthony’s Olympic achievements and status as one of the game’s best pure scorers underscore his illustrious career.

Vince Carter

Teams: Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, others
Achievements: 8-time All-Star, revolutionized dunking

Vince Carter’s high-flying dunks and longevity earned him the nickname “Vinsanity”. His teams often fell short in the playoffs, but his impact on the game extends beyond titles. He inspired a generation of players with his aerial artistry and professionalism.

Pete Maravich

Teams: Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Jazz, Boston Celtics
Achievements: 5-time All-Star, offensive innovator

Pete Maravich, or “Pistol Pete”, was a basketball visionary known for his flashy ball-handling and creative scoring. His ability to mesmerize audiences with no-look passes and long-range shots was ahead of his time.

Despite playing for struggling teams and dealing with injuries, His influence on the game’s evolution is undeniable. His artistry on the court remains a benchmark for innovation in basketball.

With a new season approaching, it’s always a good time to see how the great stars who have graced the sport would assemble their ideal team.

This time, one of the players who shared his ideal starting five is a former Philadelphia 76ers star and current Hall of Famer. Despite his immense talent, he did not include himself in the lineup.

The player in question is none other than the great Allen Iverson, who, in a discussion with Shaquille O’Neal on The Big Podcast, revealed his criteria for selecting his all-time NBA starting five.

For some, it might be surprising, and for others, perhaps not, but Iverson did not hesitate to mention the inclusion of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and the greatest shooter in history, Stephen Curry.

Allen Iverson’s selections

The historic 76ers point guard, who won a bronze medal with Team USA in Athens 2004, began his all-time starting five with the previously mentioned James and Curry. In addition, he included none other than His Airness, Michael Jordan, and the great Kobe Bryant.

Lastly, one might think Iverson would include himself in his ideal lineup, but quite the opposite—he chose to include former Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers center Shaquille O’Neal.

In conclusion, a team made up of James, Curry, Jordan, Bryant, and O’Neal would be a nightmare for any opponent, and few could stand up to this starting five.

Those who didn’t make the cut

The historic debate over the ideal all-time team is one that is unlikely to ever reach a unanimous conclusion. Countless players have left an indelible mark on NBA history, and whether due to personal preferences or biases, the names that make the list often vary.

Allen Iverson’s selection of these five players left out legends such as Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Tim Duncan.

Nevertheless, it’s undeniable that this remarkable selection by the current Hall of Famer point guard is a lineup that few would argue against as an ideal all-time team.