"Sometimes I even think leaving might not be such a bad thing" - Allen Iverson on how trade rumors during his 76ers years emotionally drained him

Yahoo

17-05-2025

In July 2006, Allen Iverson opened up about the emotional toll trade rumors took on him, not just as a player, but as a person. He explained that it wasn't only his own future on the line; his family also felt the pressure.
A.I. said the constant talk about whether he would stay with the Philadelphia 76ers became so exhausting that, at times, he thought actually being traded might be easier than dealing with all the speculation. At least then, he and his loved ones could finally have some peace of mind.
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"Sometimes I even think leaving might not be such a bad thing because I might not have to deal with this every summer. My kids might not have to deal with this, my wife might not have to deal with this," shared Iverson, per ESPN.
Even "The Answer" couldn't escape the rumor mill
Trade rumors are a constant part of the NBA, often driven by media speculation. These stories — and everything that comes with them, like expert opinions, salary cap discussions, and predictions about new lineups — spark endless debates and keep fans engaged, especially during the offseason when no games are played. In essence, the public's hunger for this content is massive, even more so when big-market teams like the 76ers are involved.
However, for the players discussed, these rumors can be emotionally draining. Much like any job with an employer-employee dynamic, their sense of stability and well-being often relies on feeling secure within their work environment.
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You might think that a franchise legend like Iverson, who had been with the Sixers since 1996, would be mostly left out of trade rumors. After all, he gave everything to the team and still put up strong performances. How could the front office even consider letting go of a cornerstone like him?
The media, however, saw things differently, and "The Answer" was often part of those blockbuster trade speculations. Although A.I. would eventually come to terms with it, the Virginia native still felt the impact.
"It's just tough everywhere you go, no matter where in the world, people ask you that same question. I am used to it, but I am also tired of it," said the 2001 MVP.
Related: 'His dad's been trying to get him out of here for a while' - Andre Iguodala says Klay Thompson's dad had been asking his son to join the Lakers for years
The end of a turbulent era
When A.I. made those comments, trade rumors were swirling — perhaps more than ever. The Sixers had just finished a frustrating 38-44 season, missing the playoffs for only the second time in seven years. For a franchise with title hopes, it was a clear sign something had to change.
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As a veteran, the former MVP realized that better than most. He also said he understood why his name, in particular, dominated the headlines after that setback. The multiple-time scoring leader knew the NBA's business side left little room for loyalty when results fell short.
"We didn't make the playoffs last year, and when something like that happens, you feel like you got to do something. I don't know why it has to be me, but I guess I have that type of value," noted the legendary guard.
Although he also made it clear he wanted to stay with the Sixers, "The Answer" admitted that if the team no longer saw him in their plans, he would accept it. That moment arrived on December 19, 2006, when the franchise icon was traded to the Denver Nuggets after more than a decade in Philly.
In Denver, the attention faded for a short time — but only for a while. Trade rumors seemed to follow A.I. wherever he went.
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For today's players in similar situations, there are a few ways to respond: tune out the noise, including social media and the press, and remember that the NBA is a business where change is constant and no situation is ever truly secure.
Related: Monta Ellis details how his relationship with the Warriors fell apart: "They suspended me for 57 games so they could get another $500,000"