Allen Iverson's Australian Engagement and Past NBL Interest
Allen Iverson, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and former NBA MVP, is scheduled to attend the second HoopsFest in Perth, Australia, from January 15 to 18. This event marks Iverson's first direct interaction with Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) and Women's National Basketball League (WNBL).
Historical NBL Opportunity
A report by CODE Sports indicates that Iverson was considered for an NBL role approximately 16 years ago. In 2010, after playing for NBA teams Philadelphia, Denver, Detroit, and Memphis, Iverson joined Besiktas in Turkey. During this period, Rodney Overby, then a court announcer for the Sydney Kings, contacted Iverson regarding a potential move to the NBL.
Iverson publicly expressed interest in playing in the NBL in 2010, tweeting, "I hear Sydney is a real good city to live in. My boy Rodney O asked me to come over. I am comin!"
Ultimately, the move to the Sydney Kings did not materialize. Bob Turner, then the Kings' general manager, stated that while the acquisition of Iverson would have significantly raised the club's profile, it would have been financially unsustainable for the organization.
Impact and Previous Experience
AJ Ogilvy, a veteran of 218 NBL games, played alongside Iverson during his tenure with Besiktas in Turkey. Ogilvy commented on the significant attention and excitement that surrounded Iverson's presence in the team.
Upcoming HoopsFest Appearance
Iverson's participation in Perth's HoopsFest will involve several scheduled events over the four-day period.