The NBA jersey advent calendar: 25 days of hoops history for the holidays

3. Allen Iverson — Philadelphia 76ers

The answer to the question of what jersey will represent the NBA for the third day of the calendar is none other than The Answer. Specifically the “PHILA” throwback worn by Allen Iverson on the instant classic “Soul on Ice” Slam Magazine cover from March 1999.

More than just a cool look, the cover is the perfect representation of Iverson as a figure about to change the face of the NBA forever. His hair is blown out into a giant afro, jewels shine from his ears, neck, and wrist, his tattoos are proudly on display, this is AI telling the world who he is. Like him or not, he’s not going anywhere, for a long time.

No other player defines the link between hip-hop and basketball better than Iverson. Rap and hoops have always been connected, but the NBA wasn’t always willing to accept it, trying to hold on to a squeaky clean image put forth by stars of a previous generation.

Iverson helped to knock down those walls with his style, honesty, and gutsy play on the court. He was fearless on the hardwood, and his heart, along with his MVP-level play won him fans for life.

Most of Iverson’s career in Philly was spent in the black, gold, and blue era of 76ers basketball. While that look wasn’t terrible, the throwback jersey is a no-brainer choice for this list. The jersey itself is classic and clean, the all caps PHILA lettering in bold red outlined by a crisp white on a solid field of blue. Jerseys that display alternate text outside of the team’s city or standard nickname will always stand out.

Honorable Mention: Shareef Abdur-Rahim (Vancouver Grizzlies), Drazen Petrovic (New Jersey Nets), Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat)