Allen Iverson crossing over Michael Jordan

Long lasting explanation, whether we agree with the method, the personality or even the background, all of it made Allen Iverson one of several fiercest rivals previously to play the overall game.

On March 12, 1997, as his novice period had been achieving the finish line, Iverson and also the Sixers had been facing the NBA winner Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan.

Iverson lit up the Bulls, tying a then-career high with 37 points, even though Sixers, despite a solid showing, bowed on Bulls, 108-104.

Exactly what defined this video game had been one move, Iverson's trademark, the crossover.

From the time his high school days, Iverson mentioned the mastery regarding the move ahead the master, Michael Jeffrey Jordan.

"we used to always tell my friends whenever I have thereon phase, I'm going to decide to try my move ahead the very best, " Iverson said.

Late when you look at the game, Jordan discovered himself guarding the cocky novice out-of Georgetown and wasn't about to back off. And Iverson, like the younger shooter dealing with the old gunslinger, wasn't planning to back from difficult.

"countless dudes, when you see guys which you kinda seemed up to, they kinda shy away from the challenge, " Iverson said. "And I simply took it on."

Iveron's tresses was quick and his collection of tattoos little, reminding united states just how young he was about this evening.

He rocked Jordan as soon as with a small crossover then dropped the big one, moving to his right and swishing a 20-foot jumper simply in front of the flailing Jordan. The group at the CoreStates Center, anticipating what was about to take place, rose and erupted in joy. Our guy went one-on-one because of the best player previously and our man won, these were thinking. At that moment, Philly fell in love with Allen Iverson. He had been ours. He was our David towards the NBA's Goliath. We had a star, too.

"I do not think I in the pipeline it, " said Iverson, who had faced the Bulls two times prior to, however the situation to test the move never ever materialized.