The National Basketball Association, like many other
professional sports, is as much about the owners as it is about the
players.
The National Basketball Association, like many other professional sports, is as much about the owners as it is about the players.
Over the past few years, NBA Commissioner David Stern and team owners have often imposed their power. They have introduced a new dress code policy, made contract stipulations more rigorous and instituted the practice of using synthetic basketballs. (The use of leather ball returns on Jan. 1, 2007, as a result of player complaints.)
Because owners have so much riding on their teams’ success, they always seek to improve their rosters via trade. There is usually a flurry of activity this time of year as players shuffle around the league. Superstar Allen Iverson, who asked to be traded from Philadelphia, is the hottest star on the market. Since the day he announced his intentions, Iverson has been put on the inactive list and hasn’t played in the last three games.
I have always been a huge Iverson fan. His jaw-dropping crossovers and drives to the hoop are amazing. When I heard about his current status, it made me think about the possibility of him coming to the Golden State. Even though the idea is a bit unrealistic, it never hurts to dream.
If Iverson ended up in a Warriors jersey, the benefits would be enormous. In addition to gaining more media attention, the Warriors would be welcoming a proven NBA All-Star.
At age 31, he is considered one of the greatest guards in the league’s history and one of its most prolific scorers. Iverson, also known as “A.I.” and “The Answer,” was Rookie of the Year his first year in the league, won the MVP award in 2000, and has won four scoring titles in 10 NBA seasons.
He, along with Baron Davis and Jason Richardson (when healthy), would definitely be the best trio in the league. A.I. is a fan favorite and the Bay Area would certainly show him the love he deserves.
Iverson would instantly make the Warriors a legitimate playoff contender. So how do we get him? Billy King, 76ers general manager, has made it clear he is looking for young athletic guards and future first-round picks.
Although Golden State’s draft picks are undetermined, the team is full of young talent. Of the 14 players on the active roster, nine of are under age 25. Two of the youngest (20 and 21, respectively) are center Andris Biedrins and guard Monta Ellis.
It is virtually assured that if A.I. came to the Warriors, Ellis would be shipped out, along with another player and a draft pick. Chris Mullin and Rod Higgins, the two men in charge of Warriors’ roster moves, are uncertain if they want to give up on Ellis who has shown flashes of brilliance in his young career.
No matter where Iverson ends up, the league is certain to see a shift in power. I believe that Iverson will make whichever team he joins a legitimate championship contender.
In my perfect world, the fans at the Oracle Arena will be chanting “Iverson, Iverson” someday soon.
Michael Stevens is a senior at Gilroy High.
