No more Answer in Philly

I'm disappointed that one of the biggest stars in the league ever has finally given up and asked to be traded from his team of 11 seasons. I'm equally shocked that the Philadelphia 76ers, from coach Maurice Cheeks to general manager Billy King to chairman Ed Snider, decided to make this very public and very firm against Iverson.

Iverson isn't perfect. He never showcased that he needs to be perfect. A.I. did, however, proved that he's a superior athlete with more heart than anyone you'll know. The Answer played hurt in many games and still delivered the goods that made him a superstar.

Iverson lashed out against Larry Brown, a hall-of-fame coach that took the team to the 2001 NBA Finals. Although A.I. and Brown have made up their differences now, the separation was too great between the star player and mentor. The team has never been the same since the break-up. Iverson broke team rules and didn't feel that practices added value to his talent. Iverson presented the NBA with a "gangsta/thug image" that commissioner David Stern wants to eradicate now. Iverson sold more of his jerseys and shoes because of who he is. And now, he's leaving the only city that values what Iverson preaches: being real.

Iverson's negativity didn't hurt his popularity as an athlete because he was so damn talented. The Answer won MVP at the all-star game. The Answer won MVP of the league. The Answer played on several flawed Team USAs. The Answer paid for the funeral of a kid that was killed over his jersey. The Answer took great care of his own kids. The Answer made his mama proud.

Basketball is a business and these things happen. Shaq has been traded twice and many would argue that he's the most dominant player from 1995-present. Iverson's value will be very difficult to match up equitably in the market. No doubt the 76ers will take a loss on any deal they decide to agree on.

Wherever Iverson goes, his fans will continue to follow him. I wonder if Philly fans will boo A.I. when he comes back as a visitor. Iverson will be somewhere else soon, but his heart will always be in Philly.