Allen Iverson is talkin' about practice and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

In a notable shift from an infamous former stance, NBA legend Allen Iverson is talking about practice. Speaking to kids at the No Flukes Foundation, a youth basketball camp hosted by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, The Answer delivered an encouraging message about the importance of preparation and hard work, invoking the former Kentucky guard as a prime example.

First, he referenced himself, “[I am an] All-Star, All-NBA, Hall of Famer, top 75 of all time. You think I didn’t practice?” This drew a loud reaction from the crowd, as the now 50-year-old Iverson gave a head nod to one of the most famous press conference clips of all time.

Iverson continued, “So obviously I did (practice), you know what I mean? Go overblown. It’s funny. People say [I didn’t practice] nowadays. But I swear you have to practice. You have to practice to become whatever you’re trying to become in life.”

Then came the shoutout to the man on top of the basketball planet right now. “You think Shai (Gilgeous-Alexander) didn’t practice? [He] became the MVP, the best player in the world. You have to practice.”

Allen Iverson, who won the NBA MVP in 2001, back when SGA was just three years old. But Shai has always admired the AI’s game, calling him one of his basketball heroes in the past. Now, the former Kentucky backup point guard has nearly every basketball accolade in the books, and his Iverson-like preparation is a key reason why.

So, heed the advice of Allen Iverson, kids. Be like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Practice.

Allen Iverson calls Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the best player in the world 🔥

"You have to practice to become whatever you tryna become in life. You think Shai didn't practice? Become the MVP, the best player in the world? You have to practice."

(via @noflukesfoundation/IG) pic.twitter.com/g76zgN0Vim

— Cooper Jones (@CooperJNBA) August 1, 2025