Let the Fun Begin with Iverson in Memphis

If you were too focused on NFL Week 1 matchups, you may have missed the biggest NBA news of the week. In the world’s worst secret, Allen Iverson finally signed with the Memphis Grizzlies for one year, and it’s reported to be worth between $3.1 million and $3.5 million, depending on team incentives.

The 34-year-old comes with a long list of accolades: he’s a former MVP, a 10-time All-Star, and he’s second to only Shaquille O’Neal in terms of points among active players. But Iverson’s never been known as the greatest teammate in the world, and he was essentially kicked out of Detroit because he wouldn’t take a bench role. So, I’m wondering, what kind of effect is this going to have on the Grizzlies, a small team filled with players who need to have the ball in their hands? O.J. Mayo and Rudy Gay should see their shots go down dramatically, which isn’t a good look because it appeared like they were fighting over shots in the first place. Shoot, Iverson said that this years was “personal”. That translates into, oh, 25-30 shots a game, and lots of 1-on-5 action while the other Memphis players stand around and watch (think Iverson in Philadelphia, but with more individual talent).

The Grizzlies have been trying to groom Mike Conley for the starting point-guard role, but what happens now? Is Iverson the starter? He’ll have to be, because if he didn’t accept a bench role with a veteran team like Detroit, what makes you think he’ll do it in Memphis?

The Grizzlies may be throwing team chemistry under the bus for ticket sales, and Iverson’s press conference in Memphis was filled with fans welcoming the “Answer” to town. Memphis hasn’t had a star since they gave Pau Gasol away to the Lakers for a bag of nails and a sandwich, and even though Mayo and Gay are up-and-coming, they’re not established stars like Iverson. Maybe the excited crowd will pump the players up and get them to play better.

Now, I’m actually hoping that it works out, because Iverson is my favorite player of all-time (non-MJ division, of course), skill-wise. But history has proven that he’s not a good team player, and he’d be better suited in a 20-minute role, while teaching the young Memphis players along the way. I hope I’m wrong, but I won’t be going with the Grizzlies that much when I’m betting online.