Exiled 76ers guard Allen Iverson Tweeted late Monday to address recent reports that he was not only dealing with the possible end of his NBA career, a sick child and a pending divorce but he was also allegedly battling alcohol and gambling problems.
“To my fans: You all know that my life isn't perfect,” he Tweeted. “I am going through some very tough times right now, like I am sure that we all do from time to time.”
Iverson posted four messages Monday night that served almost as a singular statement (in 140 characters at a time) telling fans he expected to overcome the obstacles in his life.
“I will stand tall like always with ‘rhino' thick skin.''
The personal problems for A.I. first came to light in early Feb. when he missed five games and the All-Star Game to be home to tend to his sick daughter Messiah.
A.I. came back for three games in mid-February but that would be it. He left the team again to not be a distraction while he took care of his personal life, the team announced last week.
Turns out those personal issues could be a lot worse than anyone originally thought. The Inquirer’s Stephen A. Smith wrote that multiple NBA sources were concerned about A.I.’s alcohol and gambling problems.
A.I. didn’t seem to like what was being said about him.
“Even though I have become used to hearing people say things about me that aren't true, it still hurts,” he Tweeted.
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The 34-year-old averaged 13.9 points and 4.1 assists per game in 25 games Sixers this season -- a far cry from the days when he won an NBA MVP and four scoring championships.
Despite the tough times A.I. ended his Tweets with an upbeat message.
“I encourage you to continue your ongoing support and I want you to trust that this is another obstacle in my life that, with God's help I will overcome.”
“God Bless You All.”
