Brown and Iverson eventually reconciled and the coach made his former guard co-captain of the 2004 Olympic men's basketball team.

"I'm sick that he's going to retire. I don't think he's ready," Brown said. "I think he still could play."

"He had an unbelievable career. I don't think any little player in the history of our game impacted the game like he did. I can't go anywhere where people don't stop me and ask me about Allen."

Iverson credited Brown, and his Georgetown coach John Thompson, who was at the ceremony, for turning him into a man. He had a catch in his voice taking about his deep relationship with former Sixer Aaron McKie. He called Jordan an inspiration.

But Iverson's post-NBA career has been marred by divorce and stories of financial ruin and alcohol abuse. Iverson was flanked on the podium by three of his children, and said he couldn't let every rumor about his personal life upset him.

The Sixers have talked to Iverson about a role with the franchise but no decision has been finalized.

Miami's LeBron James, a 2004 Olympic teammate of Iverson's, said it was time to give The Answer his due.

"Allen had a great career, one of the best players to ever play the game," James said. "What he did for this league was great and will always be remembered."