This is by far my favorite Steven A Smith segment ever in history. As a Kobe fan, I agree with him every step of the way. I hated AI but loved AI because of what he stood for and how he left his all on the court. The only player I felt Kobe really really respected during that time period because AI didn’t stop.
I'll never forget how in his Jersey retirement ceremony (when the Warriors played against Lakers) Kobe basically gave Draymond the cold shoulder cuz he was so excited to see A.I. and give him a big hug!! 🤣 Even as a Kobe/Laker fan who's always HATED the 76ers, I always had MAD RESPECT for A.I.'s true grit & "give it all" mentality, and that was one of the most touching moments I've ever seen in an NBA ceremony.
@@alco1414 the media pushed it as one or the other so if you were a kid you chose one or the other at that time. We beat them but they were scary because of AI alone. They played defense every time he came down the court it could get spooky at any given moment.
But is AI calling sixers and they’re just not returning his calls or telling them they aren’t interested? I doubt it because I think Steven A would have said as much. Is AI just waiting for the sixers to reach out to him? And then just sulking on TV about it? Kind of looks that way. Dude grow up, you have to interview for jobs. You don’t get interviews if you don’t apply!
Sorry I don’t agree here. Simmons would’ve ran away quicker. Simmons is sofa soft he only lasted this long in Philly due to uncle Brett being the coach and the organization coddling him. Now AI and Embiid on the other hand would definitely get along
This is Stephen A's specialty topic. You know he would knock this one out the park. He is 100% right about AI needing a role with the 76ers. Especially when their current team's starting PG plays like he is scared!
@@MrSPIDEY21 he never said he wanted to coach. A simple players consultant or advisor role to the players directly is all he wants. You can’t tell me the players wouldn’t love to be able talk basketball AI and pick his brain about the ins and outs of the game especially on the court which is what eluded to in the interview with Taylor rooks
Allen Iverson is literally THE REASON I am a Sixer. I'm 6'0 ft now, and that was the height of my father when I was a kid. AI made me believe, in my heart, that I could be a professional basketball player dunking on 7'0 ft guys. I kid you not when I say that man taught me to FEARLESS no matter who was in front me. He is genuinely one of the biggest, simplest inspirations in my life. The day he backs out from the Sixers, I'm backing out with him.
"with the first pick in the 1996 NBA draft, the Philadelphia 76ers select.... Allen Iverson from the University of Georgetown" - Still gives me chills to this day
Greatest NBA draft of all Time A.I, Ray Allen, Kobe, Steve Nash, Stephon Marbury, Jermaine O'Neal, Antoine Walker, Marcus Camby, Ben Wallace who was undrafted, Peja Stojakovic, Kerry Kittles, Derek Fisher, Jerome Williams, Zydrumas Ilgauskas
A.I. deserves better, you can't mention 76ers without mentioning Allen Iverson aka " The Answer". He changed the game, there was no one like him and the 76ers fans loved him.
I've been saying this for like nearly 7+ years now, he needs to be apart of our organization. This man played the game at an insanely high level for well over a decade!!
He's pure talent dude. This isn't a guy who went out there and learn the x's and o's. He's a guy who went out there and was just flat-out better than most people, and he skated by on that for 15 years. He's not Kobe Bryant who would spend eight hours a day in the gym. Mentoring younger players and learning every single play in every Playbook
A.I has never fully got his due, dispite being a HOF. It's like his own organization is hating on him. He should absolutely be a part of his former team.
If AI wants to be part of the staff in any way, YOU MAKE HIM A PART OF IT. He was the face of their team since he came in the league. Big shoes to fill with how many guys had come before him and he filled them perfectly
Let me guess Ben Simmons aint a man because he decide to not play for an organization that didn't have his back at his worst. Let me guess he should be loyal like Iverson who they wouldn't even make a janitor. Ok I understand.
I've always wondered the same thing....why? He's one of the greatest 76ers to put that jersey on and a living legend in the game. He knows basketball and the young guy's coming in would play their heart's out knowing he was watching their every move. Time to make some adjustments in that organization and finally bring A.I. aboard.
@@thewonthatloss227 well. I said recent era, When Dr J was start playing in around 1976, I’m not even borned. So when I’m referring to recent era, it’s probably 1990 and after
I got more Reebok Questions than any other shoe I've ever had in my entire life (that goes Jordans too), and it's all because A.I. He should 100% be apart of that organization!!
ITS A JOB just like any Job, you have to be equipped mentally and experience wise. Retired players who end up coaching, consulting and training laid the groundwork. They attended coaching camps to update their knowledge, built a network, applied for understudy positions, trained players, coached HS College ball... They didnt retire, did whatever, then years later just walked in and asked for a position solely on their individual accolades as players. cause you can be a great individual talent as a player but coaching demands more.
@@captainplaytex You do realize that being a great PLAYER doesnt always mean Great Coach, trainer or consultant. You can be a below average player (Phil Jackson, Steve Kerr...etc ) but if you have the IQ, Discipline and played the game the right way in a team setting, and DID YOUR TIME learning the ins and outs of coaching, then you'd have more to teach than say a guy who is a great individual talent.
@@captainplaytex I'm not saying AI can never be a great coach, but he certainly has not done much since he retired. He went dormant, didnt bother with Organized basketball anymore, didn't stay active, connected and updated, didn't bother coaching even HS ball. Even with his interviews he cant seem to talk coherenty or even talk technically about the game. When he talks basketball he talks mainly about skill, not really the technical aspects of the game. And Todays game has evolved so much. As opposed to guys like Gilbert Arenas who can breakdown plays at a drop of a hat.
The way AI reps this city and the 76ers at EVERY event he does?? Like every time I see him there’s always a moment where he just thanks everyone there for accepting him and loving him. He has so much gratitude and love for the city
I can’t imagine any red blooded NBA fan saying AI wouldn’t be able to help. He was the most tenacious, relentless, toughest guard/small forward to ever play the game. Period.
He is 100% correct, you can tell a real player by their face, posture and attitude, in general, under favorable and unfavorable conditions. Real ones know real ones.
AI is right. He small, but he has the right courage to overcome his limitation and became a legend. He can definitely help both Simmons and Embiid, but Simmons specifically to get his confidence back. If you think about it, Simmons is tall, talented, but the adversary and pressure clouded his mind of what he really can do.
@@buddhaent idk about that just imagine a 6’6 AI that’s Vince Carter, AI, and Kobe in One that’s definitely better then a guy who shot 22 percent from 3 and retired tell the NBA shortened three point line for 3 seasons causing him to win 3 more rings then they raised back 🙃🥴🤲 the NBA is very smart for that helped them become a global brand if nobody could stop AI at 6 foot imagine him at 6’6, THE!! Crossover breaks The great Kobe’s angles hes now at the free throw line jumps in the air posters shaq he becomes the goat 🐐 and we remember MJ for what he is and that’s Kobe Bryant there the same player
@@MCCARVERWORLD You're saying Jordan won rings because of the 3 point line? That's a real big stretch. Jordan came in dominating from the start when the NBA was tough, and he became a global brand by 93. A I couldn't win or figure out to win in a watered down NBA. Jordan had heart, but he was smart enough to trust coaches and players around him, AI wasn't. If Iverson was 6'6 he would be another guy like Carmelo who scores alot and doesn't win much.
Bruh, AI was one of the biggest basketball influence that ive had growing up. He was the true definition of playing with heart. And seeing Philly do this to him is just fucked up to the deepest core and it breaks my heart. The man gave his absolute EVERYTHING for Philly. And can you imagine how he could’ve helped out with the ben simmons situation? So many possibilities man…. Philly really fucked up.
What is Philly doing to Allen Iverson? We got his jersey hanging in the rafters. We bring him out all the time. You mean we should give him a job? Why so he can not take it seriously and show up late lmfao... Allen Iverson is not a great basketball mind who learned the x's and o's. He wasn't famous for working hard. He was famous for just being so naturally gifted he could get away with not working hard
This is the Stephen A. & ESPN type of production and information that makes the headlines. Great job reporting. Put some Respeckk on A.I. name talent and knowledge of professional team sports.
Still one of the greatest basketball players I’ve ever seen. Absolutely impossible to guard 1 on 1 in his prime. Too quick, too athletic. too relentless, insane motor, too accurate around the basket, to easy for him to create a jump shot off the crossover or jab step…just to much to deal with on the court period!
Iverson is my favorite player of all time. I had his shoes, wore a shooting sleeve, bought his merchandise and clothes and even bought his documentary way back in the early 2000s. He's the reason I became a basketball fan and a sixers fan. The fact that this hasn't been asked to be apart of the organization in some way or form is not only disrespect to AI but it's disrespectful to all the fans AI has brought to the sixers. I grew up in Cali, near LA everyone is and was a Lakers fan when I was growing up except me. And it's simple cause of one man. The answer!!
Can't lie, I have no idea how I'm so late but, this video just brought tears to my eyes. We are a STRONG city, a proud city! We loved Ben as we did A.I. Ben turned his back on us and A.I. didnt. And Stephen A. Is preaching that gospel about the city of brotherly love. Thank you A.I. and thank you Stephen A. Smith. ✊✊✊💯💯💯✌✌✌
Magic Johnson spoke about this when he was coach of the Lakers and he quit. He talked about how the best players get too frustrated with average players. Let us not even mention Michael Jordan the worst scout of all time And plenty others on that list
AI gave the 76'ers his all. The amount of injuries Iverson use to play with blows my mind, especially in that era. No matter how many times you knocked this man down, the Answer kept coming.
The fk are you talking about? Business look? He don’t have to be in the front office dude. He can be an ambassador like the raptors did for drake. And you don’t ever see drake wearing “business” attire at games do you?
This is a rare moment that I agree 100000000% with Steve A. Iverson is the best PG to play the game. Absolutely deserves to be involved in the 76ers organization. It's sad the 76ers never invested in players to surround him. GOAT
I grew up and lived down the street from Bethel HS in Hampton, VA when Iverson went to jail for that bowling alley fight and when he was drafted. The way that man held down Philly and got them to a finals which was a miracle playing with a bunch of scrubs, 76ers need him on the staff or elsewhere in the organization yesterday.
@@Alanboy395 They don't owe him a job because of that bro. Do you not see how that could be an issue? Do you want to be the guy who has to fire AI if he does a bad job? Remember Magic coaching the Lakers? They got pressured into making that hire because of his fame in LA. If AI really has the skills, he could get a job elsewhere. Right now we should be talking about the Sixers having to fight for him from other teams instead of owing him a job.
An organization started rules because of AInn they didn’t like his “package” but when they’re cold asf trying to restart everything. They turn on the AI symbol to save the process 😂
They really need to make it right with Allen iverson many Philadelphia! I met him and he was such a good dude and he is such a hero to me I was starstruck and couldn’t speak other than say thank you! How many players have the ability to touch a city like that!
ITS A JOB just like any Job, you have to be equipped mentally and experience wise. Retired players who end up coaching, consulting and training laid the groundwork. They attended coaching camps to update their knowledge, built a network, applied for understudy positions, trained players, coached HS College ball... They didnt retire, did whatever, then years later just walked in and asked for a position solely on their individual accolades as players. cause you can be a great individual talent as a player but coaching demands more.
I have 12 76er jerseys, 76er hats, Jackets and other merchandise. There is only one and the same name on every one of those jerseys. Iverson was the reason I even followed the 76ers.
I don't care what people say about Stephen A, he always upholds for us Philly fans, whether it's blunt honesty or appreciation, he gives it to us straight and upholds this city. And don't even get me started on how he represents A.I. can't believe he has no role in the organization...it's a shame
Thank you for sharing this. This is disgraceful. Period. The Sixers should be ashamed of themselves. He is Sixer and Basketball Royalty. His impact on the game, style and otherwise still ripples throughout the league. Disgraceful.
To me when I think of the Sixers I think of AI. He is the reason the team had their last finals appearance against the Lakers as SAS said and to disrespect a legend like that is unacceptable
I'm an Aussie watching this wearing an A.I. jersey, loving the season the Sixers are having and excited about Harden coming and being that missing piece that will help take the Sixers all the way for the first time in 55 years and Iverson being the only reason I personally started getting into Basketball and the NBA. Citizens of Philly and players aswell need to do something about this BS, Iverson kept your franchise alive and helped bring fresh young players into the league give the man the respect he Fuckn well deserves.
Y’all allow Elton Brand to run ish but won’t let A.I in? The only thing I like about the Sixers is Embiid and they are stationed in my city, other than that I have no love for this franchise.. gave him one good team, mis drafted EVERY YEAR then traded him and never got close to getting back to the nba finials since he left
Iverson, TO, Ochocinco, and the list goes on. All these guy’s could help the NBA & NFL player’s. It’s a disgrace that they don’t play roles in any organizations surrounding NBA/NFL
This has nothing to do with KG but that’s how I feel about KG when it comes to the Timberwolves I hate when great athletes dedicate their lives and do their part when it comes to giving their all to these organizations. Ai definitely deserves to have a role with the 76ers it’s said he put that city on his back man Ai and KG will always be two of my favorite players
KGs issue resides with glen Taylor. Alex Rodriguez just bout a ownership stake so hopefully he can up it to a majority and then KG would be integrated back in the T-wolves franchise. But Taylor needs to go before KG even considers coming back
Man I got the opportunity growing up to watch A.I play. The man was the lightest and fastest player in the league but yet had the biggest heart. He didn't care who was in the post, he would just take it to the hole everytime and draw fouls. The man is forever tied to 76ers so they should give him some type of role. A.I prime is better than most these 2 guards today.
Well after seeing this I got to give this man a little bit more respect!! This is the first time I actually agree with him and he saying something positive 💪🏾
Stephen A really be sounding like a Jay Pharaoh impression… “It hurts me to say this…He’s a friend… I love him like a brother….we took showers together” lol
If people want to know why Ben Simmons wants to get tf out of the Philadelphia 76ers organization, this is one of the reasons. To Allen Iverson: The Atlanta Hawks organization would gladly offer you an executive position in their organization.
People laugh when I say AI would make a great coach. He's done it all. Rookie of the year, All Star, MVP, All First Team Offense AND defense, Olympian and twice lead the league in assists. (We gotta mention that more often!) Had the Sixers given him someone to actually play with, he'd probably have a Championship too. He'd be a great coach because he can relate to any player. We all know the high pedestal they all hold him on. And he'd make sure these young dudes worked harder, and learned from his every mistake.
Things like this is why it doesnt bother me one bit when players don’t show loyalty to teams. The word “Loyalty” is always thrown around when a team or fans want a player to stay. Whether in free agency or if they ask for a trade. Teams can trade players, not resign them or treat legends like AI like they don’t exist. And its ok. The sixers are on some bs.
Every once and while Stephan A makes sense and one of his rants is worth it
Lol right. My sentiments exactly
I knew that this would be good, hadn't clicked on a First Take video since Max left😅
🤣🤣🤣
It's about time!!
Real talk
He’s 1000% right when you think of the 76ers you think of Allen Iverson. He was a beast.
Or Dr.J
This is the best Stephen A. segment I've seen in a long time. PREACH!
He’s wrong black privilege
@@mrno_name9518 🤣🤣🤣🤡🤡🤡
Amen
Yup . I stopped watching his segments
Except for the Hollaring (imo)
This is by far my favorite Steven A Smith segment ever in history. As a Kobe fan, I agree with him every step of the way. I hated AI but loved AI because of what he stood for and how he left his all on the court. The only player I felt Kobe really really respected during that time period because AI didn’t stop.
I'll never forget how in his Jersey retirement ceremony (when the Warriors played against Lakers) Kobe basically gave Draymond the cold shoulder cuz he was so excited to see A.I. and give him a big hug!! 🤣 Even as a Kobe/Laker fan who's always HATED the 76ers, I always had MAD RESPECT for A.I.'s true grit & "give it all" mentality, and that was one of the most touching moments I've ever seen in an NBA ceremony.
Why did y'all hate AI tf? The Lakers constantly beat the sixers..
Only wilt Chamberlain played 40 minutes game and Allen was also in this category
@@alco1414 the media pushed it as one or the other so if you were a kid you chose one or the other at that time. We beat them but they were scary because of AI alone. They played defense every time he came down the court it could get spooky at any given moment.
What exactly did AI stand for? 😂 My favourite player of that era btw.
Allen Iverson Was a straight up Baller. That man had game . One of the Best . A true HOF. Best of luck to you and your Family A.I.
I’ve always wonder why sixers didn’t have him on staff everytime i’ve seen him at games an still repping sixers on social media.
But is AI calling sixers and they’re just not returning his calls or telling them they aren’t interested? I doubt it because I think Steven A would have said as much. Is AI just waiting for the sixers to reach out to him? And then just sulking on TV about it? Kind of looks that way. Dude grow up, you have to interview for jobs. You don’t get interviews if you don’t apply!
@@tucco2097 you think Magic interviewed for any job he had with the Lakers? Highly doubt that
HE IS THE EXAMPLE OF LOYALTY!! A.I. CUT/BUILT DIFFERENT IN A WORLD FULL OF OPPORTUNISTS AND GET OVERS!!! MY FAV PLAYER....not even close🏀
@@Jaimo203 Magic was best friends with Jennie. So…that’s not going to apply to everyone. And that was a train wreck anyhow.
@@tucco2097 not necessarily
Iverson would’ve helped with this Ben Simmons situation if he was there
Big facts
Yup!
Sorry I don’t agree here. Simmons would’ve ran away quicker. Simmons is sofa soft he only lasted this long in Philly due to uncle Brett being the coach and the organization coddling him. Now AI and Embiid on the other hand would definitely get along
I get the reasoning, but I highly doubt it would change anything. Ben is truly in his own bubble.
ABSOLUTELY!!!!
This is Stephen A's specialty topic. You know he would knock this one out the park. He is 100% right about AI needing a role with the 76ers. Especially when their current team's starting PG plays like he is scared!
It's gotta be his specialty, Stephen A isn't where he is without Iverson
Because he was on point with take and he’s completely right I didn’t know that iverson wasn’t an staff for the sixers
He’s not right…AI wouldn’t make a good coach, gm, or anything…I honestly don’t think he wants to be
steven a is a race huckster. No wonder espn loves him.
@@MrSPIDEY21 he never said he wanted to coach. A simple players consultant or advisor role to the players directly is all he wants. You can’t tell me the players wouldn’t love to be able talk basketball AI and pick his brain about the ins and outs of the game especially on the court which is what eluded to in the interview with Taylor rooks
Allen Iverson is literally THE REASON I am a Sixer. I'm 6'0 ft now, and that was the height of my father when I was a kid. AI made me believe, in my heart, that I could be a professional basketball player dunking on 7'0 ft guys. I kid you not when I say that man taught me to FEARLESS no matter who was in front me. He is genuinely one of the biggest, simplest inspirations in my life. The day he backs out from the Sixers, I'm backing out with him.
You no damned sixer
😆
@Shahrukh Kamran nobody named ricardo mendez over 6 ft that man probably as tall as Isaiah Thomas lol even trae young taller than ricardo
@Shahrukh Kamran he changed it to rodrigo. It was ricardo when i made the post
@@AMaidenlessRunt Tomato tomato 🤣
This is definitely one of Stephen A.'s best takes. He is 100% right.
One of the best rants SAS did. I totally agree with him on AI
"with the first pick in the 1996 NBA draft, the Philadelphia 76ers select.... Allen Iverson from the University of Georgetown" - Still gives me chills to this day
@The Esquire of Sports® University
Of
Georgetown
Greatest NBA draft of all Time A.I, Ray Allen, Kobe, Steve Nash, Stephon Marbury, Jermaine O'Neal, Antoine Walker, Marcus Camby, Ben Wallace who was undrafted, Peja Stojakovic, Kerry Kittles, Derek Fisher, Jerome Williams, Zydrumas Ilgauskas
A.I. was my favorite college baller of all time!!!!!!
If we only had the #1 the next year instead of #2, we'd have had AI and Tim Duncan for a couple-a-few decades...
@@Ser_Arthur_Dayne nasty combo
Thank you Stehen A! I haven't agreed with a thing you've done or said in years but this won me over. I couldn't have said it better myself.
What has Stephen a done that you don’t like?
Allen Iverson is a perfect example of someone that’s true to their heart for basketball. Gritty accountable and a warrior. That’s AI
I have so much respect for AI. That dude gave 110% every game. Players could learn from him.
Lol S.A.S best moment since Max left😂😂😂😂
“Left” you mean kicked out
NO CAP always yelling .
@@johnnytimestamp8224 max was never supposed to be skip's permanent replacement anyway
@@999WRLDGAMING. what does that matter? SAS had him kicked off the show. If ESPN could have said you know what let’s fire him.
definitely lool
Preach on Steven A. Allen Iverson should be a part of this somehow, someway and that's the gospel. A.I. is the 76ers..4 life!
Why should he be you think?
A.I. deserves better, you can't mention 76ers without mentioning Allen Iverson aka " The Answer". He changed the game, there was no one like him and the 76ers fans loved him.
If A.I was there, Simmons wouldn’t be doing what he is doing
Now this I agree wit 💯
on god😂😂😂😂
Amen
It's practice, just practice! Simmons is just missing practice...
Definitely that respect would have gon a long way💯 But it starts with who does the hiring were like on our 5th gm since 2016 😭😭
I've been saying this for like nearly 7+ years now, he needs to be apart of our organization. This man played the game at an insanely high level for well over a decade!!
He's pure talent dude. This isn't a guy who went out there and learn the x's and o's. He's a guy who went out there and was just flat-out better than most people, and he skated by on that for 15 years.
He's not Kobe Bryant who would spend eight hours a day in the gym. Mentoring younger players and learning every single play in every Playbook
A.I has never fully got his due, dispite being a HOF. It's like his own organization is hating on him. He should absolutely be a part of his former team.
Big 3 couldn't even rely on him but the 76ers organization should?
@@mrt094dnt do dat
If AI wants to be part of the staff in any way, YOU MAKE HIM A PART OF IT. He was the face of their team since he came in the league. Big shoes to fill with how many guys had come before him and he filled them perfectly
Face of the NBA even
That's just sentimentality. You get what you can negotiate for. It's a business. Not emotion.
Hes still the face of that brand lol just like mj is still the face of the bulls brand.
@@leonhartsblade
Big Facts! My first pair of name brand shoes where a pair of A.I’s all black
AI wasnt just the face of the team, he was the face of the NBA for some years and is the biggest face the Sixers have ever had.
Imagine iverson on the sidelines with a button up, gold chains, and a fitted on. 😭
Yeah and he thinks he belongs on the organization yeah right he seemed drunk when he even said that
😂
@@mrno_name9518 Why tf would he dress casual? You’re still judging AI based on who he was 20 years ago.
@@mrno_name9518 You a clown fr 🤦🏽♂️
@@mrno_name9518 Don't quit your job at burger King my guy 🤷🏾♂️
Allen Iverson was 10X the man Ben Simmons is
And you're being nice to Simmons...
Not tryna sound stupid or anything at all but u do mean as a player right? 💯
You mean 20x
💤 😴 💤
Let me guess Ben Simmons aint a man because he decide to not play for an organization that didn't have his back at his worst. Let me guess he should be loyal like Iverson who they wouldn't even make a janitor. Ok I understand.
I've always wondered the same thing....why? He's one of the greatest 76ers to put that jersey on and a living legend in the game. He knows basketball and the young guy's coming in would play their heart's out knowing he was watching their every move. Time to make some adjustments in that organization and finally bring A.I. aboard.
Respect to Stephen A on this one! A.I is such a great guy and one of the best athletes of all time.. he deserves more from 6ers
If A.I was there he would tell Ben Simmons to practice 😂
Right?
🤣🤣🤣
Nah😂 he’d say get yo B***ch A$$ outta here
💯
As he should 😂
Iverson is the best sixers in the recent era, he deserves respects from sixers organization
Individual talent, i would say best behind wilt chamberlain and he played in the modern era.
@@lk5388 Dr J
Julius Erving
@@thewonthatloss227 well. I said recent era, When Dr J was start playing in around 1976, I’m not even borned. So when I’m referring to recent era, it’s probably 1990 and after
@InsurancewithSheeno you put embid in front of Barkley? Someone should slap you
"YOU SUCKED AS AN ORGANIZATION!" 😂😂😂😂😂
We gonna let that comment slide
Facts, and they still suck as an organization.
He meant every word too!😂🤣
2 words ..STRAIGHT FACTS ..good job smith 💪🏼💪🏼🔥
I got more Reebok Questions than any other shoe I've ever had in my entire life (that goes Jordans too), and it's all because A.I. He should 100% be apart of that organization!!
If Iverson wants to be an adviser or part of scouting he should. At least give him a chance. Keep your icons around.
ITS A JOB just like any Job, you have to be equipped mentally and experience wise. Retired players who end up coaching, consulting and training laid the groundwork. They attended coaching camps to update their knowledge, built a network, applied for understudy positions, trained players, coached HS College ball... They didnt retire, did whatever, then years later just walked in and asked for a position solely on their individual accolades as players. cause you can be a great individual talent as a player but coaching demands more.
in an hbcu
@@rickyspanish5243 you trying to tell us that a HALL OF FAME player needs to go to do more to qualify himself as a member of the organization lmao
@@captainplaytex You do realize that being a great PLAYER doesnt always mean Great Coach, trainer or consultant. You can be a below average player (Phil Jackson, Steve Kerr...etc ) but if you have the IQ, Discipline and played the game the right way in a team setting, and DID YOUR TIME learning the ins and outs of coaching, then you'd have more to teach than say a guy who is a great individual talent.
@@captainplaytex I'm not saying AI can never be a great coach, but he certainly has not done much since he retired. He went dormant, didnt bother with Organized basketball anymore, didn't stay active, connected and updated, didn't bother coaching even HS ball. Even with his interviews he cant seem to talk coherenty or even talk technically about the game. When he talks basketball he talks mainly about skill, not really the technical aspects of the game. And Todays game has evolved so much. As opposed to guys like Gilbert Arenas who can breakdown plays at a drop of a hat.
Stephen A was actually good this segment. Then again he always speaks passionately about Philly.
Which is funny considering the fact that he´s a Knicks fan
"DID YOU SEE MY KNICKS????"
@@_erik_2138 😂😆
Well he’s been a writer in Philly for more than a decade
@@_erik_2138 Perhaps the 76ers are his second favorite. 🤷🏾
True. but it was refreshing for a change.
The way AI reps this city and the 76ers at EVERY event he does?? Like every time I see him there’s always a moment where he just thanks everyone there for accepting him and loving him.
He has so much gratitude and love for the city
And he Not even from there! that just where his heart is! 100 %
@@Greatest203 yep.
I can’t imagine any red blooded NBA fan saying AI wouldn’t be able to help. He was the most tenacious, relentless, toughest guard/small forward to ever play the game. Period.
He is 100% correct, you can tell a real player by their face, posture and attitude, in general, under favorable and unfavorable conditions. Real ones know real ones.
AI is right. He small, but he has the right courage to overcome his limitation and became a legend. He can definitely help both Simmons and Embiid, but Simmons specifically to get his confidence back. If you think about it, Simmons is tall, talented, but the adversary and pressure clouded his mind of what he really can do.
Mad respect for AI. Greatest pound-for-pound basketball player ever.
Definitely!
The best ever if he was 6’6 there wouldn’t have been MJ
@@MCCARVERWORLD come on now you're getting a little carried away with that one. That Jordan guy is still a big deal. 😂😂😂
@@buddhaent idk about that just imagine a 6’6 AI that’s Vince Carter, AI, and Kobe in One that’s definitely better then a guy who shot 22 percent from 3 and retired tell the NBA shortened three point line for 3 seasons causing him to win 3 more rings then they raised back 🙃🥴🤲 the NBA is very smart for that helped them become a global brand if nobody could stop AI at 6 foot imagine him at 6’6, THE!! Crossover breaks The great Kobe’s angles hes now at the free throw line jumps in the air posters shaq he becomes the goat 🐐 and we remember MJ for what he is and that’s Kobe Bryant there the same player
@@MCCARVERWORLD You're saying Jordan won rings because of the 3 point line? That's a real big stretch. Jordan came in dominating from the start when the NBA was tough, and he became a global brand by 93. A I couldn't win or figure out to win in a watered down NBA. Jordan had heart, but he was smart enough to trust coaches and players around him, AI wasn't. If Iverson was 6'6 he would be another guy like Carmelo who scores alot and doesn't win much.
Bruh, AI was one of the biggest basketball influence that ive had growing up. He was the true definition of playing with heart. And seeing Philly do this to him is just fucked up to the deepest core and it breaks my heart. The man gave his absolute EVERYTHING for Philly. And can you imagine how he could’ve helped out with the ben simmons situation? So many possibilities man…. Philly really fucked up.
OMG..NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT THAT... WOOOOOOW
That’s probably why Ben did what he did
@@willgee7777 I ç
What is Philly doing to Allen Iverson? We got his jersey hanging in the rafters. We bring him out all the time. You mean we should give him a job? Why so he can not take it seriously and show up late lmfao...
Allen Iverson is not a great basketball mind who learned the x's and o's. He wasn't famous for working hard. He was famous for just being so naturally gifted he could get away with not working hard
This is the Stephen A. & ESPN type of production and information that makes the headlines. Great job reporting. Put some Respeckk on A.I. name talent and knowledge of professional team sports.
Still one of the greatest basketball players I’ve ever seen. Absolutely impossible to guard 1 on 1 in his prime. Too quick, too athletic. too relentless, insane motor, too accurate around the basket, to easy for him to create a jump shot off the crossover or jab step…just to much to deal with on the court period!
thats some facts
Oh I love the way you broke him down much love for AI u nailed it no words needed to be added!!!
only dude that was close, and could of surpassed him... was Derrick Rose, but unfortunately we never got to see Prime Derrick Rose
@@Jamezy316 facts!
He deserves a big part in that franchise.
Why just cuz he said it? No dude theres a reason why hes not
@@Sicnesses23 you sound dumb ? Jordan fan or something ?
yeah if not a big part some kind of a role to improve the 76ers.
@@lubui2583 what role would he play?
@@jacobyarmand13 nah your just a fanboy
THE LAST TIME ALLEN IVERSON WAS IN THE PLAYOFFS HE SCORED “ FFOOAAGHRRRTTY” !
-SAS
Iverson is my favorite player of all time. I had his shoes, wore a shooting sleeve, bought his merchandise and clothes and even bought his documentary way back in the early 2000s. He's the reason I became a basketball fan and a sixers fan. The fact that this hasn't been asked to be apart of the organization in some way or form is not only disrespect to AI but it's disrespectful to all the fans AI has brought to the sixers. I grew up in Cali, near LA everyone is and was a Lakers fan when I was growing up except me. And it's simple cause of one man. The answer!!
♥️♥️♥️👍
@sleeping bear I mean it's facts but ok 🤷🏽♂️
Oml
No doubt bout that...nuff said
Condolences for having such a shitty favorite.
This literally has me standing up like church right now. Preach Steph 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯
Can't lie, I have no idea how I'm so late but, this video just brought tears to my eyes. We are a STRONG city, a proud city! We loved Ben as we did A.I. Ben turned his back on us and A.I. didnt. And Stephen A. Is preaching that gospel about the city of brotherly love. Thank you A.I. and thank you Stephen A. Smith. ✊✊✊💯💯💯✌✌✌
Imagine if A.I would’ve been the talent scout for the last 10 years for the sixers. The sixers been using Iverson and his likeness since he left.
Funny how everyone saying that but the truth of the matter is the best players make the worst scouts and coaches. There are so many examples
@@charlesxplosiveii6206 this is true the vast majority of the time, idk I just have a feeling A.I. Would have a feel for scouting.
@@Jairusd88 i’ll give him one thing he sounds like he will be dedicated so they should give him A try
@@charlesxplosiveii6206 that’s not true at all lmfao. Kick rocks you casual
Magic Johnson spoke about this when he was coach of the Lakers and he quit. He talked about how the best players get too frustrated with average players. Let us not even mention Michael Jordan the worst scout of all time And plenty others on that list
AI gave the 76'ers his all. The amount of injuries Iverson use to play with blows my mind, especially in that era. No matter how many times you knocked this man down, the Answer kept coming.
He's too unapologetically him for an organization. He's never had the business look but I do believe Allen Iverson could help scout talent.
But he did say that basically he don’t need to be that but he said he knows the look and I agree
The fk are you talking about? Business look? He don’t have to be in the front office dude. He can be an ambassador like the raptors did for drake. And you don’t ever see drake wearing “business” attire at games do you?
@@Haddonfield63 Facts
You want "business look" or AI who generates real business profits?
What is “the business look”?
This is a rare moment that I agree 100000000% with Steve A. Iverson is the best PG to play the game. Absolutely deserves to be involved in the 76ers organization. It's sad the 76ers never invested in players to surround him. GOAT
That's beautiful Stephen A..thank you..I love A.I. too..thank you for standing up for him..God bless 🙏
Allen Iverson is my favorite player of all time, he is the reason I became a Sixers fan, the reason I started liking basketball .
Same here bro.. don’t think he was 6’0 but he played like he was 6’6..plus I’m from philly
@@judedestin477 👊
This is one of the few times that I agree with S A .Smith. Plus I used to live in Norfolk Virginia when he got drafted
P-Town right over here. I watched him playing high school football and basketball. He was the best athlete on the field and court by far!
you just basically admitted that you're not going to be objective when it comes to this.
I grew up and lived down the street from Bethel HS in Hampton, VA when Iverson went to jail for that bowling alley fight and when he was drafted. The way that man held down Philly and got them to a finals which was a miracle playing with a bunch of scrubs, 76ers need him on the staff or elsewhere in the organization yesterday.
@@Alanboy395 They don't owe him a job because of that bro. Do you not see how that could be an issue? Do you want to be the guy who has to fire AI if he does a bad job?
Remember Magic coaching the Lakers? They got pressured into making that hire because of his fame in LA.
If AI really has the skills, he could get a job elsewhere. Right now we should be talking about the Sixers having to fight for him from other teams instead of owing him a job.
This was the real SAS I remember
Wow....Stephen A hit the bullseye with this rant....finally
I mean… I see no lies!
The Answer was a real soldier! He definitely influenced generations, even here in France!
If AI were to run for the mayor of Philly, he’d probably win. He’s treated like a god here.
No cap lol.
@Jared Hutchins No it wouldn’t
That would never happen if you were a LAKER!!! AI was something special
Umm the lakers kicked out Magic Johnson to give the job to a Rob Lowe look alike
@@saifk6188 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 good point
@@saifk6188 Naw Magic left cause The Dodgers are probably far less of an emotional toll, plus they make more money.
@@saifk6188 magic wanted the power of a gm without doing the work of a gm
AI was Definitely A BOSS , Gave his Opponents Serious PROBLEMS On the Court.
76’ers better start treating Allen Iverson like the iconic brand ambassador that he is
The sixers should find something for iverson. It would boost morale for the franchise. Smith is 100 percent right on this.
AI was my favorite player growing up. I think whatever this man wants to do within the organization, he should be given the opportunity.
Telling the truth man AI is and will always be the man
An organization started rules because of AInn they didn’t like his “package” but when they’re cold asf trying to restart everything. They turn on the AI symbol to save the process 😂
yup! you can do your "own thing" but be ready to pay the price.
They really need to make it right with Allen iverson many Philadelphia! I met him and he was such a good dude and he is such a hero to me I was starstruck and couldn’t speak other than say thank you! How many players have the ability to touch a city like that!
ITS A JOB just like any Job, you have to be equipped mentally and experience wise. Retired players who end up coaching, consulting and training laid the groundwork. They attended coaching camps to update their knowledge, built a network, applied for understudy positions, trained players, coached HS College ball... They didnt retire, did whatever, then years later just walked in and asked for a position solely on their individual accolades as players. cause you can be a great individual talent as a player but coaching demands more.
I have 12 76er jerseys, 76er hats, Jackets and other merchandise. There is only one and the same name on every one of those jerseys. Iverson was the reason I even followed the 76ers.
I don't care what people say about Stephen A, he always upholds for us Philly fans, whether it's blunt honesty or appreciation, he gives it to us straight and upholds this city. And don't even get me started on how he represents A.I. can't believe he has no role in the organization...it's a shame
Imagine Iverson being part of the sixers organization and telling players " Practice???"
You talking about practice???? Not the game not the game..practice???…
@@desordenpublico ben simmons watches that interview every day before going off for shooting practice.
Hahahah not the game
The most taken out of context words of ALL time.
We are emotional fans looking from the outside in. We don't what the Sixers know. But at least give him a shot.
Nicely put Stephen A. 100% facts bro!!!! AI is the best thing to happen to the Sixers in the last 30 plus years
I bet Philly doesn't want AI because he probably had the clairvoyance to say "trade simmons and try and keep butler"
Yo that's an excellent point!
Mann u hit it on the head... But I want him in anything dealing with the NBA.. he rebirth the game
he definitely would’ve said keep butler trade simmons 💯💯
😆
Thank you for sharing this. This is disgraceful. Period. The Sixers should be ashamed of themselves.
He is Sixer and Basketball Royalty.
His impact on the game, style and otherwise still ripples throughout the league. Disgraceful.
I couldn’t find not 1 thing to disagree with Stephen a smith about! Absolutely correct 💯
First Take turning into Stephen A’s world 🌍
He was tired of getting cooked by Max every day
Agreed. This is the best segment of Stephen A since Max left. That was a heck of a monologue.
To me when I think of the Sixers I think of AI. He is the reason the team had their last finals appearance against the Lakers as SAS said and to disrespect a legend like that is unacceptable
I'm an Aussie watching this wearing an A.I. jersey, loving the season the Sixers are having and excited about Harden coming and being that missing piece that will help take the Sixers all the way for the first time in 55 years and Iverson being the only reason I personally started getting into Basketball and the NBA.
Citizens of Philly and players aswell need to do something about this BS, Iverson kept your franchise alive and helped bring fresh young players into the league give the man the respect he Fuckn well deserves.
Why do we need to give this dude a job when he's never proven he's a great basketball mind? You can't teach talent and that's all Iverson has
"Stephen A" is the greatest to ever do it. On point. 💯
Y’all allow Elton Brand to run ish but won’t let A.I in? The only thing I like about the Sixers is Embiid and they are stationed in my city, other than that I have no love for this franchise.. gave him one good team, mis drafted EVERY YEAR then traded him and never got close to getting back to the nba finials since he left
Don't forget letting Jimmy butler walk....
just a bunch of terrible decisions by the organization.
They tanked for YEARS.
@@yeuxoftheuniverse6918 I love Al horford too but that was the dumbest thing ever😂
@@yeuxoftheuniverse6918 im still mad about Jimmy 🤦🤦🤦🤦
@@yeuxoftheuniverse6918 Jimmy and jj were the pieces to hide ben on offense 😂😂
Aye you from philly right ??? Whats the best place too get a cheesesteak I'm from Georgia???
Uncle Allen is the GOAT. And you can still catch him at Friday's on CityLine Ave.
And that’s a fact!!!!!!
I’ve heard it before that the only reason Mike is the goat 🐐 is because AI wasn’t 6’6
A.I. is my all time favorite player in the universe and I never thought that he wasn’t a part of the organization some kind of way. Mind Boggling 😩🤔
Allen Iverson is the face of the 76ers franchise, its like saying the Lakers and not thinking of Kobe, Magic and Shaq...
Iverson, TO, Ochocinco, and the list goes on. All these guy’s could help the NBA & NFL player’s. It’s a disgrace that they don’t play roles in any organizations surrounding NBA/NFL
I love this SAS RIGHT ON THE MONEY!!!!
This has nothing to do with KG but that’s how I feel about KG when it comes to the Timberwolves I hate when great athletes dedicate their lives and do their part when it comes to giving their all to these organizations. Ai definitely deserves to have a role with the 76ers it’s said he put that city on his back man Ai and KG will always be two of my favorite players
KGs issue resides with glen Taylor. Alex Rodriguez just bout a ownership stake so hopefully he can up it to a majority and then KG would be integrated back in the T-wolves franchise. But Taylor needs to go before KG even considers coming back
I loved seeing KG come back to the Twolves at the end. At that time the team was too young to push for playoffs
I need an advocate like the great Stephen A. Smith🙌🏿
Be at Peace with self; when there is so much doubt in the mist. You become the clarity.
if Iverson had another All Star teammate no question, he'll win a championship.
Man I got the opportunity growing up to watch A.I play. The man was the lightest and fastest player in the league but yet had the biggest heart. He didn't care who was in the post, he would just take it to the hole everytime and draw fouls. The man is forever tied to 76ers so they should give him some type of role. A.I prime is better than most these 2 guards today.
Well after seeing this I got to give this man a little bit more respect!! This is the first time I actually agree with him and he saying something positive 💪🏾
Always loved watching him play he always brought it every night
Stephen A really be sounding like a Jay Pharaoh impression… “It hurts me to say this…He’s a friend… I love him like a brother….we took showers together” lol
Realest thing Stephan a has said in a long time
Please be my back up Stephen a smith u go so freaking hard!!! It’s insane just beautiful watching u stand up for ya bro!
If people want to know why Ben Simmons wants to get tf out of the Philadelphia 76ers organization, this is one of the reasons.
To Allen Iverson: The Atlanta Hawks organization would gladly offer you an executive position in their organization.
Finally a good segment since max left. I miss the old first take the 2018 2019 2020 first take
To me Allen Iverson is and will always be the Barry Sanders of The NBA when he played .He never gave up He never ever quit
People laugh when I say AI would make a great coach. He's done it all. Rookie of the year, All Star, MVP, All First Team Offense AND defense, Olympian and twice lead the league in assists. (We gotta mention that more often!) Had the Sixers given him someone to actually play with, he'd probably have a Championship too. He'd be a great coach because he can relate to any player. We all know the high pedestal they all hold him on. And he'd make sure these young dudes worked harder, and learned from his every mistake.
Much respect on this segment SAS! You hit it on the head!
Stephen A finally making a good point.
SAS BRAVO Appreciate Respect
You Are Most Definitely Correct!💪🏾💯🏀
Things like this is why it doesnt bother me one bit when players don’t show loyalty to teams. The word “Loyalty” is always thrown around when a team or fans want a player to stay. Whether in free agency or if they ask for a trade. Teams can trade players, not resign them or treat legends like AI like they don’t exist. And its ok. The sixers are on some bs.
Get the Answer in the organization. Adviser, GM, something. So disrespectful