Iverson's retirement: This is not a practice

          The basketball world got the news today this week that Allen Iverson has retired from professional basketball.

          Iverson was among the most electrifying offensive players in the game during his prime years and he loved to play. Iverson will probably miss the games but, looking on the bright side, at least he won’t have to practice any more.

          Click on the link below to see Iverson’s feelings about practicing.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGDBR2L5kzI

 

          The best story I ever heard about practice, in any sport, involved Magic Johnson during his short stint as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers won a few games after Johnson took over as head coach with 10 or 12 games to go in the season, but they went on a losing streak after that.

          Johnson reportedly felt the players were not buying into his ideas, which included working hard in practice. I believe it was the final practice before the final game of the season when Johnson decided it was time to make a point.

          Johnson laced up his sneakers and picked an assistant coach who had played with him and one or two others, then played against the Lakers starters in a series of three games to 15 points.

          The old guys destroyed the starters in all three games.

          When it comes to practice, you can listen to Iverson (the link is still above) or you can look at Magic Johnson’s hands. You know, the hands with all those championship rings.

 

          Hey, if you’re reading this, it is because your elementary school teachers made you practice your reading skills. Thanks to them and thanks to you for reading.