“He didn't touch a ball all summer, I'm not saying he didn't love it, but he was so gifted” - Dahntay Jones speaks on Allen Iverson’s incredible natural ability
Allen Iverson
© Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
NBA champion Dahntay Jones recently described how gifted former teammate Allen Iverson was when they were teammates in Denver.
Iverson was different
Iverson, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016, remains one of the most naturally gifted players in league history. Unfortunately, A.I's dedication to the game didn't match his love for it, and he often found himself in hot water for his lifestyle choices and extracurricular activities away from the hardwood.
Nevertheless, his talent was undeniable, and recently former teammate Dahntay Jones revealed just how gifted the six-foot guard was during their time together playing for the Denver Nuggets.
"I show up to Denver, me and J.R. Smith get there early because we were going to start to work out early. and everyday, Allen Iverson would be in the car and be like 'Yo, come to Dave and Busters'. They'll play shuffleboard, and they'll play pool to about 11.30 pm, 12:00am, A.I. would then go to the club, he'd like to have a few drinks he'll walk out of the club and ask what time we are going to practice. We'd say we'll be there at 11:00am. Me and J.R. are there at 11:00am, and A.I. doesn't show up. This is for two months.
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We get to training camp, A.I. does a couple of stretches, he gets 25 shots, and he's fully A.I, he didn't touch a ball all summer. I'm not saying he didn't love it, but he was so gifted that it just poured out of his pores," he said.
Jones knows what he's talking about
Jones' comments might come as a surprise to many fans who remember Iverson to be a relentless competitor on the floor. But they also serve as a reminder that not all athletes have the same approach to their craft. Iverson, it seems, was one of those rare players who didn't need to put in extra hours in the gym to be great - his talent was simply that natural.
There's stock to be put into Jones' sentiment, as he enjoyed a 14-year career and played alongside some phenomenal talent - including LeBron James, whom he won a championship with back in 2016.
AI was all-time
It's easy to forget just how dominant Iverson was during his prime. He won the league MVP award in 2001, led the league in scoring four times, and was selected to the All-Star team 11 times. He also led the 76ers to the NBA Finals in 2001, where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games - all of which was accomplished without the benefit of a summer full of workouts and practice.
Iverson's approach to the game may have been unorthodox, but it certainly worked for him. He was one of the most exciting players to watch, and his scoring exploits will be remembered for years to come.
He may not have been the most dedicated worker, but his talent and passion for the game more than made up for it.
