You know that feeling when someone walks into a room and the energy shifts? That was the vibe in Norfolk recently. No, it wasn’t a buzzer-beater or a last-second touchdown. It was a presence—one that needed no introduction. Allen Iverson, the living legend, the embodiment of 757 grit and swagger, the icon from the 757, showed up, and suddenly the spring air felt electric.

It’s not every day you see one of basketball’s most influential figures hanging out at a college football practice. But that’s exactly what happened. AI’s connection to this event ran deeper than nostalgia or hometown pride. He was there to support his longtime friend, Michael Vick, who was making his debut as Norfolk State’s head football coach. Their bond, forged in the crucible of Virginia’s competitive sports scene, was on full display. “It’s a beautiful feeling just to be out here,” Iverson shared. “Just embracing Mike and what he’s trying to do with Norfolk State. I want to be a part of this. I want to have a lot to do with this,” he said. 

At the game, Iverson pulled the Spartans together and dropped some real wisdom. “Play every game like it’s your last, man,” he told them. “Don’t-don’t-don’t think tomorrow; it’s promising…I ain’t wishing bad on you…we love God, like we’re gonna be alright, but play every game like its your last man, because one injury, one anything, this whole thing can be open.” Then he added, with that classic Iverson love, “I love you all and I’ll see y’all throughout the season.” This wasn’t some generic pre-game hype talk—it was life advice from someone who’s lived through the highs and the hard falls of a pro career. It was raw, real, and came from the heart.

And it wasn’t just talk; the event saw some other big names in the house. Tyrod Taylor (NFL quarterback), Keyshawn Davis (boxer), along with Virginia senator Aaron Rouse and congressman Bobby Scott, all showed up to back the team. It was a solid reminder that the community is all-in on supporting their own.

“It was good to see,” Vick shared, while feeling all the hometown love. “Those guys have been telling me they were gonna come out and support, and I expect to see that all season. It’s great to have the local hometown heroes show up—guys that our players can look up to as role models, not just on the field, but as great citizens of Hampton Roads and just good people.” Vick applauds that these guys aren’t just sports stars; they’re proof that being a good person and giving back to the community matters just as much. It’s all about inspiring the youth, on the field and beyond!

Even with big things happening on the sneaker front—like the buzz around his Reebok releases—AI still made time to show love where it counts: his friend and their community. Even amidst the excitement surrounding his revitalized partnership with Reebok, Iverson’s priority was clear: supporting his longtime friend and the community that shaped him.

New icons, new styles: Iverson and Angel Reese bring fresh energy to Reebok

Reebok is definitely making waves in 2025, and they’re doing it with a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh innovation. Leading the charge is Allen, who has been instrumental in the brand’s revitalization. Iverson, now Reebok’s Vice President of Basketball, has redefined sneaker culture for over two decades, and his legacy continues to shine through the re-release of his iconic Answer III and even a new golf shoe. It’s not just about looking back; it’s about seeing how much AI’s style and legacy continue to inspire today.

On the horizon, however, a new face is rising in the sneaker world: Angel Reese. She’s already made a name for herself with her incredible athleticism and style, and now she’s taking her partnership with Reebok to the next level with a signature sneaker. Fun fact: she’s only the second WNBA player ever to get a Reebok signature shoe, joining the ranks of legends. And it’s not just any sneaker—Reebok is bringing back the Engine A, their first new performance basketball shoe in over a decade.

What’s really cool about Reese’s collection is her take on the classic Reebok Shaqnosis, inspired by her mentor, Shaquille O’Neal. Reese’s version adds a fresh twist, with coral suede, gold chrome touches, and her signature logo. It’s sporty, feminine, and completely unapologetic—just like Reese herself. This collab, just like Iverson’s iconic impact, is a huge step in shaping Reebok’s next chapter.

Even with all the buzz around Reebok’s big moves and Angel Reese’s rising star, Allen Iverson proved once again where his heart truly lies—with the people. Stepping away from the sneaker spotlight, even if just for a moment, AI showed up for his community in the most authentic way.

His presence in Norfolk wasn’t a photo op; it was a genuine display of friendship and a commitment to his roots, a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back. His presence in Norfolk wasn’t a photo op; it was a genuine display of friendship and a commitment to his roots, a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back.