When asked at the start of training camp if Allen Iverson would play in the league this year, a Sixers source said, “That’s going to be tough.”
That prediction proved true, as Iverson didn’t even receive a nibble from an NBA team this offseason. He is now reportedly set to sign a two-year contract with Turkey’s Besiktas as soon as this Sunday. Iverson will be guaranteed $2 million for his first season.
“I think it’s sad having him have to go to Turkey to finish his career,” Charlotte Bobcats coach Larry Brown said.
But the benefit appears to be mutual. Iverson has reportedly been in financial trouble, and Besiktas is looking for publicity.
“He’s going to bring lots of fans into our arena,” Besiktas president Seref Yalcin told CNN. “If he plays with even 50 percent of his NBA capacity, that will be enough. This will also be good for Turkish basketball in general, since he will inspire the youngsters here.”
