Allen Iverson's Hall of Fame Speech

Allen Iverson gave an emotional Hall of Fame induction speech. 

Allen Iverson has a story that is similar to so many young men and women who find their way to success through sports. For many, playing sports is more than a competition, it is a saving grace. There is something about building both strength of body and strength of character through building with other people.

Anyone who has ever played organized sports (not just a pick up game or street ball) will tell you that in your heart and mind you will always be an athlete, no matter how old you get. But there's more to it than that...Through sport you sharpen so many aspects of your personality. For instance, confidence and assertiveness flourish through competition.


More than that, the biggest influences you have in sports are the coaches who guide you. I had a coach once who would pick me up and drop me off from basketball practice. He did not have to do that...he had a family of his own to get back to and take care of and make sure they had what they needed and were where they were needed to be. Sure it was a short ride, but time is still precious.

During our rides to and from the gym, we would have discussions. Initially, I wouldn't say much at all. I would just stare out of the window. I don't know what finally broke the ice, but once it was broken we would talk about school, basketball and just whatever was on my mind that day.

So, my coach was more than a coach to me...he was a gap filler. He was part of my village. John Thompson was part of Allen Iverson's village and he honored him in his speech below.



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