Ray Allen versus Allen Iverson: A Basketball Society Classic
Today’s classic game brings a rivalry that dates back to both players’ college days. Allen Iverson and Ray Allen used to have battles similar to this game when Georgetown faced off against UConn. They may not have been at the same caliber back in the university days, but they were still great games nonetheless. Their previous history and the time of this game made this an instant classic.
The year was 2001 and the Sixers are in the midst of a magical run through the playoffs led by the league MVP and everyone’s favorite “little guy,” Allen Iverson. The only team standing in their way was the 52-30 Milwaukee Bucks, led by a 25 year-old Ray Allen. This game six came after a closely contested game five that gave Philly the 3-2 series lead. Milwaukee was now back at home and they had their backs against the wall. Threes were raining down from all over the court by Iverson and Allen while each player fought for their team’s championship hopes. The Bucks had a great a first half, but then the Sixers came out to play after halftime. There were signs of a comeback, but even though Philly outscored Milwaukee by 19 in the second half, it was not enough to capture the series in six.
Final Score: Milwaukee Bucks 110 – Philadelphia 76ers 100
Ray Allen: 41 pts(12-25 FG, 9-13 3PT FG, 8-8 FT), 4 ast, 3 stl
Allen Iverson: 46 pts(14-33 FG, 5-9 3PT FG, 13-15 FT), 3 ast, 1 stl
Iverson and Allen’s highlights can be seen in the video below
All stats were from basketball-reference.com