What Is the Answer?

A couple of days ago I caught an episode of Iyanla Vanzant’s show, Iyanla Fix My Life. She had the seemingly impossible task of helping Earl Simmons better known as the rapper, DMX, get control of his life. He appeared to be struggling with a major drug addiction and needed a long stint in rehab along with therapy sessions with Iyanla. At the end of the show nothing was accomplished, but she did asked the viewers to support DMX. It’s always discouraging to see people fall from grace, but DMX is not the only celebrity whose life appears to be falling apart right in front of our eyes.

Allen Iverson, “The Answer,” is really dealing with some demons and it is not looking pretty for him. Iverson has been out of the NBA for three years now, but he still believes he can help some team. According to the Washington Post report, his desire to return to the league has been fueled more by his dire financial circumstances along with his love for the game that brought him such riches and fame. But now Iverson is trying to find his way or should I say his next assignment in life.

Unfortunately, most athletes - from high school to the pros - go through this transition period after their playing careers are over. This period of limbo can either be a therapeutic or lethargic state and in Iverson’s case it appears it is the latter. He has the desire to play ball, because that has been his place of refuge and familiarity for him. On the other hand, no owner is willing to see if he still has the Iverson skills of old or if his body can handle the NBA’s grueling 82 game season plus playoffs. I understand their position as well as Iverson’s, but the question still remains. What becomes of Iverson?

The next phase of Iverson’s life has yet to be determined, but I can only hope that he gets through this dark period and accept the help that his true friends, such as Larry Brown, have offered him. I agree with Coach Brown’s opinion that Iverson needs to be around the game in some form or fashion, but he has to accept the fact that his playing career is over or it could be like taking a newly recovering alcoholic to an open bar. I don’t know the answer for Iverson, but I hope “The Answer” finds his answer.