When Allen Iverson was drafted into the league in 1996, he instantly signed an endorsement deal with Reebok. During the duration of Iverson’s epic career, Reebok sneakers were on his feet. The player and the company experienced tremendous success together. Learn more about the Answer 14 below.
The Return
The Reebok Answer line was on a break for 5 years when it returned in 2014 with the Answer 14. The shoe looked like the old Iverson shoes, especially the Answer 3. The 14 had a breathable upper. It also featured light DMX Foam cushioning.
It was hoped that this would be the start of the continuation of the Answer line. Sadly, the shoe underperformed, and it marked the end of the signature line for Iverson and Reebok.
Question???
Reebok needed a superstar in the mid-1990s. Reebok was looking for the face of the company.
A fresh and charismatic star that could lead them to a whole new level of success. Allen Iverson was the perfect basketball star for what Reebok wanted. Iverson was electrifying on the court and had a genuine connection to young people off it.
Culture
Iverson was a legend when he played college basketball for the Georgetown Hoyas. His height, barely six feet tall, allowed young people to connect with him differently than they would a seven-foot center. Iverson was also rooted in hip-hop culture. He dressed and carried himself in a way that aligned with the music and style kids were most interested in at the time.
Draft
Allen Iverson was drafted by one of the biggest teams in the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers. Iverson was the number one pick and expectations for him were high. Iverson was only 21 when he entered the league, but his impact on his team and the NBA was colossal from the start. He would earn Rookie of the Year honors after his first season in the NBA.
His highlight reel during his first season is still awe inspiring to this day. The crossovers and above the rim plays have not lost any luster decades later.
- Adam C. Better
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