Iverson's jersey switch is getting closer to reality

By Annette John-Hall INQUIRER STAFF WRITER
Posted: February 09, 2002

Allen Iverson will shed his No. 3 jersey and wear No. 6 in honor of Julius Erving for tomorrow's All-Star Game, fellow all-star Dikembe Mutombo said yesterday.

"I talked to him and he's going to wear it tomorrow. I think it's a great tribute," Mutombo said.

Iverson failed to show up for a media session yesterday, but reiterated after the 76ers game at Charlotte on Thursday night that he wants to wear Erving's number. Erving has said he would be in favor of such a tribute. The 76ers will announce today whether they can work out the logistics so Iverson can wear No. 6.

Yet Mutombo seemed certain that Iverson, a three-time all-star and the reigning MVP, would wear No. 6 in tribute to Dr. J in the city where both gained their fame.

"I think it's a great thing," Mutombo said. "I would love to wear one of the former players' jerseys, like Moses [Malone] or Charles [Barkley]."

If Iverson does sport the old-school look, he won't be the only one. Sales for the NBA's Hardwood Classics line, which features throwback jerseys of such NBA legends as Dr. J, Wilt Chamberlain, Malone and Barkley have increased more than 51 percent over last year at Manhattan's flagship NBA Store, and are wildly popular among actors and entertainers.

Annette John-Hall's e-mail address is ajohnhall@phillynews.com.

Inquirer staff writer Ashley McGeachy contributed to this article.

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