Former Sixers GM Billy King describes Allen Iverson's competitiveness: “When he was injured and we knew he couldn’t play, we used to hide his jersey”

A franchise's potential for success is significantly enhanced when its cornerstone player displays an unwavering commitment to always be available for them. Allen Iverson epitomized this dedication for the Philadelphia 76ers , willing to give his heart and soul out on the court even if he wasn't at his physical best. Consequently, as admitted by former Sixers' GM - Billy King, the organization resorted to hiding AI's jersey on regular occasions to ensure he couldn't participate in games where he was struggling with an injury.

Billy King on Allen Iverson

King assumed his position in the Sixers' front office during AI's third season in the league and with the team. The former immediately observed the 6-foot point guard's dedication as he led the league in scoring and minutes played in the '98-99 season. Over the next seven seasons, King only saw Iverson's hunger to be available on the court for the 76ers grow - since Iverson led the league in minutes played in four of those campaigns. However, this is where Billy and his colleagues witnessed the 2001 MVP even willing to risk his well-being if he wasn't at his physical best.

During his appearance on the 'Audacy NBA Show,' the former 76ers GM subtly remarked on the disparity between Iverson's commitment in practices and in games. While the 1997 ROY might not be willing to work rigorously in the practice drills, his determination to feature in actual games necessitated extreme measures from the 76ers organization to prevent him from competing when injured.

"He didn't wanna take a day off in games. Now practice, maybe, but games, he didn't wanna take the time off," King said . "When he was injured and we knew he couldn't play, we used to hide his jersey. Because he would come to the locker room looking for his jersey, we'd lock it somewhere so he couldn't get it."

AI was once able to outwit the 76ers

Even though hiding The Answer's jersey was typically an effective strategy, a notable incident occurred where the Virginia native found his jersey.

In this instance, Iverson's determination to play escalated to the point where he was willing to fetch basketball shoes at the last moment, regardless of the source, to enable his participation in the game

"One time, in New York, he found his jersey but didn't have any shoes. He was trying to send the ball boy to the Foot Locker around the corner," King added. "He said, 'Just give me a pair of their Reeboks. I can play in those.' Then he pointed to an attendant, 'What size are you, just give me those shoes,' because he wanted to play so bad."

Related: Allen Iverson described his mindset trying to live up to the huge hype while getting compared to MJ: "I try to put on a show and thrill them"