1. Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson is regarded as one of the most electrifying and influential players in basketball history. Selected as the first overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1996 NBA Draft, he quickly made an impact in the league. Iverson was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1997, averaging over 27 points and 7 assists per game.
Throughout his career, Iverson was known for his fierce competitiveness, fearlessness on the court, and flashy dribble. Despite being listed at just six feet tall, Iverson possessed incredible scoring prowess. He had exceptional athleticism, speed, agility, and ball-handling skills, allowing him to easily drive past his matchup and score in the paint over much larger defenders.
“The Answer” won the 2001 NBA MVP en route to leading the 76ers to the NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. He’s also an 11-time NBA All-Star, four-time scoring champion, and three-time steals leader, and he made seven All-NBA teams during his 14-year career.
AI's impact extends beyond the basketball court. He transcended the sport and became a cultural icon, particularly among urban youth. His unique style, both on and off the court, from his braids and his tattoos to his sleeve on his shooting arm and his baggy jeans and big chains, Iverson influenced a generation of basketball players and fans.
For all his efforts, Iverson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, was selected to the NBA 75 team, and the 76ers retired his jersey and recently had a statue of him erected outside of Well Fargo Arena.