In a stunning turn of events, NBA legend and former Memphis Grizzlies “all-time kicker” Allen Iverson has officially returned to the franchise—this time, not as a player, but as a senior coaching advisor. The announcement was made earlier today in a press conference held at the FedExForum, drawing excitement and confusion from fans and media alike.
While Allen Iverson is universally known for his Hall of Fame basketball career with the Philadelphia 76ers and short stints with other NBA teams, including a brief appearance with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2009, the title “all-time kicker” has raised some eyebrows. The Grizzlies, an NBA team with no football division, confirmed the phrase was meant metaphorically, praising Iverson’s “kickstart mentality” and legendary tenacity on the court.
“I’m not here to lace up again,” Iverson said, smiling during the press conference. “I’m here to mentor, to teach, and to help these young guys find that fire that made me who I am. Memphis was short-lived for me as a player, but I always felt like I had unfinished business here.”
Iverson will join the team’s coaching staff as a senior advisor focused on player motivation, offensive creativity, and mentorship—particularly for the team’s young guards. Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins welcomed the addition, saying, “Having Allen on board is like adding an entire playbook of experience and heart. The energy he brings is unmatched.”
This move comes at a pivotal time for the Grizzlies, who are looking to rebound from a challenging season and redefine their identity around a younger core. Iverson’s return, even in a non-playing capacity, is expected to draw significant attention and could bolster locker-room morale.
Fans can expect to see Iverson courtside during upcoming training camps and preseason games
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