“I was so happy when I was done,’ Allen Iverson said after retirement. After his stint at Georgetown University, he was drafted as the first pick by the Philadelphia 76ers. He went through plenty of ups and downs during his career. After winning the Rookie of the Year honor, becoming a 4x scoring champion, and playing in a foreign league, his game inspired many even after he left the game! Much of the time after the final game in the league, a former NBA player decided to announce his retirement. 

But before that, he single-handedly led the 76ers to the Finals in 2001, where the team lost to the Lakers. Following this, he went on to play for different other teams. He played for the Nuggets, Pistons, and Grizzlies. The day of December 7, 2009, is still remembered when Iverson was welcomed with an ovation from his 76ers fans. However, several challenges surrounded him, including his 4-year-old daughter’s health condition, which led Iverson to take a break.

Much later, the Virginia native shared that she was suffering from Kawasaki disease. This is a condition where blood vessels become inflamed, affecting the heart. His final NBA appearance for the 76ers was on February 20, 2010, against the Chicago Bulls. Following this, he played in a foreign league as well, ultimately returning in January 2013. “I thought once this day came it would be basically a tragic day. … I promise you it is a happy day for me. I really thought this day would be a tough day for me, but it’s a happy day,” Iverson said as he announced his retirement.

After his time abroad playing for the Beşiktaş and his final stint in the NBA, Iverson realized that he no longer had the mental competitiveness to play on the court. He was constantly worried about his daughter. “I gave everything I had to basketball and the passion is still there, the desire to play is just not. I just feel good that I’m happy with the decision I’m making. It was a great ride,” he noted.

Like the former NBA player, many have chosen retirement for their mental peace. However, sometimes, a sense of regret remains with them. What does the 76ers player think about his decision?

Does Allen Iverson regret his decision?

When Iverson returned to the 76ers back in 2009, fans saw new hope. The NBA legend’s arrival meant a lot to the fans and the team. But Iverson quickly realized that his dedication and passion for the game weren’t the same as before. That’s when he decided it wouldn’t be fair to the team and the fans. “It was good for me. But I wasn’t being fair to my teammates, the fans, or the (Sixers) organization for that matter, because I wasn’t there mentally,” Iverson said.

Did retiring from the league leave him with any regret? Perhaps not. He wholeheartedly accepted his decision. For the Philadelphia 76ers legend, this decision brought him freedom and peace. In an interview with GQ magazine, he shared that he is content with his career and the relationships he has formed off the court.

He is happy that he no longer needs to deal with the media. After retirement, he wanted to spend more time with his family and friends and live a more peaceful life. “And when they asked me, do I regret not playing anymore? Hell no, I don’t wanna play! I love this goddamn life right here. This sh*t is crazy when you can make money , people just want to see you. You ain’t even playing…,” Iverson said.

And this is perhaps the reason why he doesn’t miss the game and has no regrets! Speaking of his legacy, it will remain cemented in fans’ hearts forever, as they still admire the 76ers legend. Be it in the culture with baggy outfits and shiny jewelry or his relentless game, the 11× NBA All-Star made an unforgettable impact in the league.