?I Was Trying No to Laugh?: Allen Iverson Revealed ?Embarrassing? Meeting With Former NBA Commissioner David Stern

Allen Iverson took the NBA world by storm when he donned the Philadelphia 76ers jersey and danced onto the floor. He was the player to watch out for. However, it wasn’t only the NBA world that the 11-time NBA All-Star was popular in. He was also an icon in the hip-hop community.

In the late 90s and early 2000s, the hip-hop culture was booming while the two-time NBA All-Star MVP was embracing and influencing the new culture.? He was revolutionizing the game in terms of fashion as well.? Additionally, he also explored the music industry. Iverson’s popularity was undoubtedly reaching heights. However, his associations also resulted in a bit of trouble.

In 2000, as a part of his music career, Iverson was set to release a rap song, 40 Bars. Reports stated that the song was filled with lyrics that were offensive and degrading. This came to the notice of the league and NBA Commissioner David Stern. The public was left divided by this controversial topic. However, Stern took the issue very seriously. On comedian Kevin Hart’s show, Allen Iverson opened up about this controversy.

Allen Iverson on his most embarrassing moment

On the show titled ‘Cold as Balls’, Kevin Hart asked Iverson about the relationship he and David Stern shared. Iverson candidly confessed to having a rocky and strained relationship with the late NBA Commissioner. He stated that the issue stemmed from Iverson’s rap song, 40 Bars. Following this, he narrated an embarrassing incident with Stern.

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When the rap song’s lyrics made rounds in the community, Stern called for a meeting with Iverson. While calling the song terrible, Iverson stated that he entered Stern’s cabin only to witness Stern reading the lyrics out loud. This made the Olympics bronze medalist want to break into a fit of laughter. He said, “I was trying not to laugh because I knew how serious it was.”?

He went on to claim that this was one of the most embarrassing moments. Iverson repeatedly said, “Oh, it’s embarrassing. It wasn’t a good idea.”?

The aftermath of the meeting between Allen Iverson and David Stern

David Stern was certain that he didn’t want the league to be associated with controversial lyrics like that of 40 Bars. While refraining from penalizing Allen Iverson and the Philadelphia 76ers, Stern asked Iverson to change the lyrics of the song.

Stern even acknowledged the culture of the times. He said, “I have come to understand, unfortunately, that certain rap artists regularly spew such lyrics to a wide audience at great profit to some of America?s most successful entertainment companies.” Despite this, he was firm with his decision. Allen Iverson eventually went on to change the lyrics to the rap song.

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