Iverson, in his second season in the NBA, had one of the most memorable games of his career. It was March 12, 1997, and the Philadelphia 76ers were at home against the Chicago Bulls, the most powerful team in the NBA at the time, With Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and other legends, it once had an all-time record of 72-10 and won an NBA championship in 1996.
The 76ers, on the other hand, are a rebuilding team, without any well-known players other than Iverson, and they have a terrible record, just 22-46, with no hope of making the playoffs.
This game for Iverson, is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity. He has always regarded Jordan as his idol and role model, and he is eager to compete with Jordan to prove his strength and value.
He knew it wasn't going to be an easy game, and Jordan was an undisputed basketball god with unmatched skill, intelligence and leadership who could control and change the complexion of the game at any time.
But Iverson is not afraid, he has his own confidence and pride, he believes that he has the same speed, agility and offensive ability as Jordan, he can break through and beat Jordan's defense at any time.
The game began, and Iverson and Jordan were the starting guards for their respective teams. From the beginning, Iverson showed a high level of motivation and aggression, and he constantly sought opportunities to challenge Jordan.
He used his change of direction, step back, turn and other skills to try to get away from Jordan's defense, and then shot one jump shot after another or layup.
He also does not forget to create opportunities for his teammates, using his own passes or diversities to create openings or breakthroughs for his teammates. He had 12 points and four assists in the first quarter to lead the 76ers to a 31-26 lead over the Bulls.
Jordan didn't take Iverson lightly, and he responded to Iverson's challenge in his own way. He used his experience, strength and willpower to counter Iverson's speed, agility and explosiveness.
He used his defense to press Iverson, forcing him to make turnovers or take less-than-ideal shots. He hit Iverson with his own offense, using his position, Angle and rhythm to make one steady and efficient shot after another. He had 14 points and two assists in the first quarter as the Bulls closed the gap.
From the second quarter onwards, the game became more intense and exciting. Iverson and Jordan have continued to show their excellent state, they carried out a duel on the court you come to me, offensive and defensive transition.
They all proved themselves worthy of being the king of the court with their performances, and they all expressed their respect and provocation to each other with their eyes.
They have all gone out of their way to inspire themselves and their teammates to fight and confidence, and they have all gone out of their way to win the admiration and respect of the fans and the media.
In the fourth quarter of the game, the score of the two sides was still very close, and no party could open the gap. In the final two minutes, the 76ers led the Bulls by one point, 85-84.
The Bulls launched a drive, and Jordan got the ball and was about to drive to the basket. Iverson stuck close to Jordan, not giving him any space and opportunities. Jordan suddenly stopped, made a step-back motion, tried to shake Iverson away, and then shot a jump shot.
Iverson was not shaken, and he quickly followed Jordan's pace, extending his arm and blocking Jordan's shot. The ball bounced off the rim and was grabbed by a 76ers player.
The 76ers had a precious opportunity, they only need to score one more time, can seal the victory. Iverson got the ball and wasted no time, pushing straight forward and trying to get past the Bulls defense.
He came to the three-point line, facing Jordan's defense. He suddenly accelerated and swerved to the left, trying to get away from Jordan.
Jordan followed suit and didn't let Iverson have a chance. Iverson suddenly stopped and made a turning motion, trying to shake Jordan. Jordan was not shaken, he quickly turned his body and continued to defend Iverson.
Then something happened that shocked the audience.
Iverson suddenly carried the ball from right to left with his left hand, then from left to right with his right. This is an extremely fast and gorgeous change of direction, known as the "cross dribble".
The move left Jordan completely off-balance and disoriented as he took a step backward to his left and then swung to his right. Iverson took advantage of the opportunity to pull away and hit a steady jumper. The ball hit the net.
The audience erupted in earth-shattering cheers. Iverson had just completed an incredible offensive play where he had just rocked Jordan and made a crucial shot. This is a historic moment, this is a legendary moment.
Iverson didn't celebrate, he just calmly returned to his own half of the court and made a cool face. He knows what the ball means to him and the team.