“I played every single game like it was my last.” That line perfectly sums up Allen Iverson’s career. In the last few seconds of Game 1 of the 2001 NBA Finals, the 76ers legend showed his dedication as he hit a jumper that remains iconic to this day. He dropped 48 points that night! The 76ers might not have won, but Iverson became a perennial favorite among the people. Since that moment, he has had several ups and downs in his career as well as his personal life. But regardless of all the turmoil he has been through, he has done what he does best: Always showing up! And as the Philly legend turns 50 this year, he announced a new project, one which is personal and close to his heart.

During his 14-year NBA career, The Answer was named an NBA All-Star 11 times and won the NBA All-Star Game MVP twice. While he had an incredible NBA run, Iverson’s life wasn’t without its controversies and chaos, both on and off the court. While the rumor mill was spinning out controversies, Iverson’s version of his life is not known to many. After retiring, he had plenty of time to reflect and do an introspection of his career. And now, he has finally decided to tell his story, unfiltered and honest.

Joining Shaquille O’Neal, Dwyane Wade, and other legends of the league, the former NBA MVP has just announced the launch of his memoir titled “MISUNDERSTOOD.” Sharing a post on his Instagram, AI wrote, “I’m excited to announce that I’m releasing my memoir, MISUNDERSTOOD, this fall. This book is a look back at my life beyond the game, the struggles, the triumphs, and everything in between that made me who I am today. It’s raw, it’s authentic, and it’s me.”

From his imprisonment due to the bowling alley brawl to his rise as one of the all-time greats of the NBA, readers will get know all the layers of his life as a professional, in his own words. His first autobiography will likely shed light on his career and life from his childhood in Virginia, making it to the NBA, to ushering in a new culture in the league and the NBA world. 

During his 14-year career, Iverson forged a very tight bond with the Philly faithful. Just last year, the franchise honored the legend with a bronze statue outside the team’s practice facility in Camden, New Jersey. He also joined the Philadelphia 76ers for their biggest project this week. The Rufus Williams Basketball Court in West Philadelphia underwent a massive refurbishment. And the 11x NBA All-Star joined the 76ers and Penn Medicine for the unveiling of the court.

Although Iverson has developed a huge, loyal fan base, he has also came under a lot of criticism from some quarters. And now, he has decided to give all his critics a firm answer.

Allen Iverson opened up about his retirement 

For years, the former NBA player battled against a false narrative. He had to deal with the media and constant criticism. However, after spending more than a decade in the league, he stopped trying. “At the age of 40, I don’t think I should defend myself anymore,” Iverson said during a conversation in 2015. He said that he was a “villain” to those who didn’t agree with him but a “superhero” to those who loved him.

Toward the end of his career, Iverson recalled feeling mentally absent during the games. Much of it was due to personal issues. His daughter was sick at the time, and he was also going through a divorce, which turned very ugly. Later, Iverson reflected on how all this turmoil in his personal life impacted his performances on the court.

He had to be honest with the 76ers, who had just brought him back to the court, and with the fans. Out of love for both the team and the fans, he decided to leave not just Philly, but the States altogether as he spent his last professional season with Turkish side, Besiktas, before hanging up his boots. When asked about his regrets, Iverson admitted that he had none. 

After all, he had finally gained freedom from the media. “I was so happy when I was done. I didn’t wanna deal with the media no damn more. I was like, ‘Okay, man. I’m retired. I’mma be with my family and I’m gonna live life,’” Iverson said. The former NBA player didn’t have any regrets as he hung up his jersey for good. Perhaps his memoir will provide a closer look at his decision. Allen Iverson’s life is nothing short of a Hollywood drama with a touch of magic, turmoil, chaos, and finally, acceptance. And now, his memoir will give insights into all these chapters of his life. So, if you wanna get inspired, you know what to do!