‘I worry about him’
Iverson stood during a divorce proceeding in Atlanta in 2012 and pulled out his pants pockets. “I don’t even have money for a cheeseburger,” he shouted toward his estranged wife, Tawanna, who then handed him $61.
The scene showed a stark side of a man who had captivated crowds, pushed boundaries, and became one of the NBA’s biggest stars. He did things his way, on his schedule, speaking honestly during news conferences and snubbing the professional sports establishment. Crowds connected with Iverson, who’d succeeded despite physical limitations and mistakes, such as a felony conviction at 18 for his role in a bowling-alley brawl in Hampton, Va., his home town.
“For all of the small people, he gave all those people hope,” said Aaron McKie, a Sixers assistant coach and Iverson’s former teammate.
Years later, word has spread of Iverson’s family troubles and that he is essentially broke. Croce called more than a year ago, leaving a message through Gary Moore, Iverson’s longtime friend and business manager. There was no response.
“I just want to see him,” Croce said. “I don’t even know what he looks like.”