Sixers treasures: A comparison of Allen Iverson and Joel Embiid
By Uriah Young
Sixers treasures: Emotional Connection
What truly connects these two franchise stars is emotion and their ability to express that to the fanbase. During A.I.’s reign in Philly, you could expect the cupping of his ear to rile up the crowd. If you attend a Sixers game today, Embiid’s arm raising to get chants going in the crowd is a staple.
In so many ways, Embiid and Iverson discovered the power of fan connectivity and channeled that to their showmanship. Their ability to have spectators in the palm of their hands because of their dynamic play and then charge the entire building with a smile is not just impressive but exceptional.
The honesty of either player also separates them from their NBA rivals, past or present. The endearing aspect of Iverson was that he cared so much about the game (notice I avoided practice) and wore his emotions on his sleeve. In press conferences, he told you what was on his mind and never apologized. Embiid is similar in that he is not shy about admitting his shortcomings and then promising the city that he will do better.
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Finally, their passion for the game is what solidifies these two basketball icons in the minds of Philly fans. If I had a crypto wallet back then, it’d be full of Bitcoin by now for each time Iverson claimed he tried to “leave everything on the floor” during a game. It was evident in his drives through the lane and his relentless attack without fear of contact.
Embiid’s passion is comparable in that he plays hard and even through any injury. Of course, he has missed his fair share of games over his career, but you can tell he wants to be out on the floor with his team and for the fans. If you question his commitment or love for the game, just look back at his response to elimination in Toronto a few years ago, tears flowing like Niagara Falls. Then, recount his MVP-caliber season last year.
No question: Iverson and Embiid’s concern for winning was as high as the fans’. We felt it then, and we feel it now.