Editing Allen Iverson (section)

== 2001 MVP Season ==

The 2000-01 season represented Iverson's apex, his MVP award and the team's Finals run establishing him among basketball's elite. Surrounded by teammates whose abilities were modest compared to those of other contenders, Iverson carried the 76ers through the playoffs with performances that demonstrated what individual brilliance could achieve. His scoring title—31.1 points per game—came through relentless attack that opponents could not prevent even when they knew it was coming.<ref name="pearlman"/>

The Finals appearance against the Los Angeles Lakers, heavy favorites with Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, provided Iverson's signature moment. His Game 1 victory, achieved through 48 points and a crossover move that left Tyronn Lue on the floor, represented everything his career embodied—the undersized warrior defeating superior forces through will and skill. Though the Lakers won the series, the Game 1 image of Iverson stepping over the fallen Lue became iconic, representing defiance that Philadelphia audiences treasured.<ref name="pluto"/>

The MVP award, earned despite playing for a team without other stars, confirmed that individual excellence could achieve the sport's highest honors. Iverson joined elite company while remaining uniquely himself, the award validating an approach that many had questioned. Philadelphia celebrated an MVP who represented the city's values, the achievement belonging to both player and fans who had believed in him.<ref name="pearlman"/>