Iverson

Sporting a cornrow hairdo and numerous tattoos, Allen Iverson was a controversial figure in professional basketball during the 1990s. Filmmaker Zatella Beatty uses Iverson's own words here to describe his ascent from the projects in Newport News, VA, up to the pinnacle of success with the Philadelphia 76ers. A natural athlete, Iverson played both high school football and basketball, quickly becoming a media hero. His father, in and out of jail, was never a presence in his life, but at key points coaches stepped in as father figures, and Iverson always stayed one step away from trouble, until he was involved in a bowling alley brawl that landed him in jail. Many felt that Iverson's punishment was racially based and unduly harsh, and he was released after several months. Iverson secured a berth on Georgetown University's esteemed basketball team, where he played for a couple of seasons, before being drafted by the 76ers. Former team president Pat Croce calls Iverson a "warrior,” who quickly became a Philadelphia favorite due to his hard-working "lunch box mentality." But controversy continued to dog Iverson, over missed practices, a drug charge, claims of domestic abuse, and outrage spurred by the often obscene lyrics of a rap album that he made. Iverson eventually left the 76ers, kicked around the league, and even played a short while in Turkey before finally ending his career back in Philly. Here, Iverson talks about dealing with newfound wealth, his sometimes misguided loyalty to friends, and his hopes for a legacy. Friends and fans call him "a fighter and a survivor." A solid profile of a notorious sports figure, this is recommended. Aud: P. (S. Rees)