Allen Iverson makes European debut for Besiktas Cola Turka
Former NBA MVP Allen Iverson made his debut for Besiktas Cola Turka in a 94-91 loss against Hemofarm Stada. The ex-NBA MVP produced 15 points, three rebounds and two assists in 23 minutes in Istanbul on Tuesday.
During the game, Turkish fans cheered the 1996-97 NBA Rookie of the Year. At one point, the crowd at the venue cheered, "Allen Iverson, the son of Besiktas Cola Turka."
Changing jerseys
Iverson, who wears a number 4 Besiktas jersey in favor of his usual number 3 back in the NBA, signed with the club for a two year contract worth $4 million. The 35-year failed to attract any interest from NBA teams this season. The 11-time NBA All-Star did not receive a contract offer after a disappointing season last year with the Memphis Grizzlies and the Philadelphia Sixers.
Last season, Iverson averaged 13.8 points, four assists and 2.8 rebounds while shooting 43 percent from field goal range. He was named as a starter for the NBA All-Star game, but did not play. Early in the season, he was released by the Memphis Grizzlies after he clashed with coach Lionel Hollins. He only lasted with the team for three games and was unhappy with coming off the bench.
In the middle of last season, he was picked up by the Philadelphia Sixers, the team that he led to the 2001 NBA Finals. He played 25 games and was cut after leaving the team to tend to his ailing 4-year old daughter.
In 14 years as a pro, Iverson had stints with the Philadelphia Sixers, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons and the Memphis Grizzlies. Iverson, who won the NBA Most Valuable Player in 2001, is currently 17th on the league's all-time career scoring list with a total of 24,368 points.
