Allen Iverson’s Stunned Response After Getting Kicked Out of Starting Lineup Remains Etched in NBA Veteran’s Mind

Allen Iverson’s career in the NBA can be split into two phases. One with the Philadelphia 76ers, and one after the Philadelphia 76ers. Most are aware of the success that A.I. brought to the Sixers in his 12 years with the organization. Anyhow, there was a phase where he played four seasons with three different teams. Out of these three, it’s safe to say that his time with the Memphis Grizzlies was the worst of all, as described by former NBA veteran Jeff Teague.

Teague detailed how the Grizzlies ill-treated Iverson during his time there. The Answer had a terrific record during his time with the Sixers. However, the numbers dipped a bit after he left the Philadelphia unit. In 2009, Iverson signed a one-year deal with the Grizzlies, where he joined a young core consisting of Mike Conley, Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph, etc. 

Anyhow, the Grizzlies did not use Iverson as a starter. They went on to use a young core. Teague recalled, “Iverson was supposed to play, but he didn’t play. I remember…he [Another Grizzlies star] played in the G-League, skinny dude…last name was Taylor. He played and I’d never forget. Iverson was playing like, ‘Yeah they got this sad n**** starting over’. I heard it. I’ll never forget that.” 

Iverson played a total of three games in that season for the Grizzlies but did not start any of those. Listening to Jeff Teague’s take, it looks like this could be the reason why Iverson decided to part ways with the Grizzlies. 

What was the aftermath of the Grizzlies not starting Allen Iverson? 

Iverson went back to becoming a free agent that season. Just like they say life is a circle, Iverson signed with the 76ers once again. The homecoming had a lot of hype, but the Sixers did not live up to the expectations. They finished 13th in the Eastern Conference, with a record of 27-55. Iverson retired after that season, having averaged 12.3 points, 3.7 assists, and 1.3 rebounds.

It was good that Iverson parted ways with the Grizzlies. For his contribution to the game of basketball, the Answer deserved a proper farewell. And not many get the honor of getting drafted and ending their career with the same team. 

However, Teague’s incident with Iverson tells us how hard the four seasons must have been for the latter. A.I. did find some success with the Denver Nuggets alongside Carmelo Anthony. However, he did not get the same treatment he got from the Sixers.