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Despite Depriving Allen Iverson of $32,000,000 Until Age 55, NBA Legend Receives Rare Honor From Now-President Shaquille O’Neal

Published 10/12/2023, 1:30 AM EDT

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Allen Iverson has revolutionized the game of basketball in several ways. A part of it was also his stylish sneakers with a multi-billion sports brand. For those who idolized the 76ers legend (most NBA fans in the 90s) his shoes were a sensation. Even though Iverson benefitted the sneaker brand by creating a long-lasting impact, one could argue that his impact never earned him a fair contract. However now, there is something to smile about for the 2001 NBA MVP. Getting praised for his revolutionary career is nothing new for Iverson, but this rare honor from Shaquille O’Neal is a stand-alone. 

The above two Hall of Famers will now join hands as they start a fresh $10 billion journey. However, even if they meet all their goals, 48-year-0ld Iverson will have to wait a while until some of that makes its way into his bank.

Shaquille O’Neal praises Allen Iverson on his lasting impact

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What Iverson has done for the game of basketball will be looked upon for ages to come. However, his contribution to the Reebok has not been talked about a lot. Despite giving the multi-billion company all the fame in the NBA, they deprived him of major dollars with one of the lowest-paid sneaker deals in NBA history. One that continues to deprive AI even a decade after his retirement. On the other hand, as Vice President of Basketball, Iverson has not seen a good amount of business over the last few years.

To rectify this, Reebok has hired Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal as the president. The Answer and Superman, as VP and President does sound like a great solution.

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USA Today via Reuters

Though Shaq is in a higher position compared to AI, he decided to stay humble. According to reports, the 4-time champion shared, “AI [Allen Iverson] is a founding father of Reebok Basketball and has left a lasting impact on the game and its surrounding culture.”

Shaq added, “There is no one I’d rather work with to bring in a new generation of ballers… Shaq and AI back at it.” Moreover, Shaq promised he will help Reebok earn a $10 billion in sales by 2027

Notably, even if they reach that benchmark in time, The Answer will still have to wait a couple of years to get the full amount due to him.

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How did Reebok deprive Iverson of $32 million? 

Apart from the fact that Iverson got paid very little, he is yet to receive a massive $32 million from Reebok.

In 2001, AI signed a 5-year $50 million deal. As a part of the agreement, AI will receive $32 million only after he turns 55 in the form of a trust fund. His net worth will indeed skyrocket when he turns 55 i.e. in 2030.

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However, his sneaker deal, when compared with other superstars stands very minimal. Maybe with the new partnership, Reebok will consider compensating AI more fairly. What are your thoughts on Shaq and AI teaming up? Share your take in the comments below. 

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Written by:

Rohan Dharmalingam

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Rohan Dharmalingam is an NBA content writer at EssentiallySports. He has been following the NBA for a decade now and specializes in covering trade rumors and reports on the ever-changing trade market. The wizardry of Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry made him fall in love with the game like millions worldwide.
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Edited by:

Aakash Nair