Ego isn't the answer
Whenever Allen Iverson is criticized for his unprofessional actions, his backers immediately point to his competitiveness and fearless playing style almost as justification. I've been guilty of it. ("Sure Iverson missed practice, but he just plays so hard.")
But at some point Iverson has to realize that there's much more to being an NBA superstar than scoring a lot of points and competing hard. He has to understand the responsibility that comes with the $100 million contract and the Reebok commercials.
He must lead his teammates with his practice habits, his dedication to team goals and with his deference to his coach, whoever it might be.
On Sunday Iverson was supposed to be out of the lineup with a knee injury, but just before game time he informed Chris Ford that he was ready to play. Ford and his staff had assumed Iverson wouldn't be playing and had developed a game plan accordingly. So he asked Iverson to come off the bench, which AI never had done before. Iverson refused, went back in the locker room, changed into his street clothes and watched the game, proclaiming, "I'm not a sixth man. I'm a starter."
In effect, Iverson's message to his teammates was that their efforts to make the playoffs weren't as important as his pride.
The incident epitomized A.I.'s NBA career in a lot of ways. Yes, his pride and competitiveness made him a star, but they also have kept him from being the leader he needs to be.
Iverson never has understood the difference between pride and defiance. His competitive fire is wonderful to watch – but only on the court. When it shows up in the form of ego at the expense of his team, it's no longer flattering.
