Quick Hits: The Rise of A.I.

So it's official, Allen Iverson's career isn't over as he's signed a deal to return home to the Philadelphia 76ers. The move is clearly a low-risk, high-reward one for the 76ers. If they choose to guarantee the contract, they'll owe less than a million dollars for the season. And, at least until the return of G Louis Williams from a broken jaw, the move is an easy fit. Iverson can start at SG and provide a potent scoring punch, while having arguably the most talented supporting cast he's ever had in Philly with the other A.I., Elton Brand, and Thaddeus Young. At 5-13, the 76ers had nowhere else to turn with a dwindling record and a quickly dwindling fanbase.

The important point is, a team gave A.I. a chance, something I was skeptical of in my recent profile of the Answer. Still, questions abound. Will he accept a reduced role when Williams is healthy? Will he finally be comfortable in his own skin again? Will he defer to more talented teammates? Will the fans of Philly embrace him as they did before? And will Iverson show Eddie Jordan the same level of respect he did Larry Brown?

The answers will play out over the coming weeks. I for one am happy Iverson gets this chance to reboot the end of his career. A player of his stature and historical impact didn't deserve to leave the league with an unwanted whimper. If you live in an NBA city, or close to one, I urge you to go see Iverson play, you may never get another chance to see one of the most unique forces in league history. But, realistically, this reunion doesn't look like it will end well. The 76ers are still a borderline playoff team at best and it's doubtful Iverson will change his stubborn ways. This has the makings of a sappy made-for-tv reunion more than an honest second chance. Still, I hope it works out for A.I., and his legacy. I hope he sees the light and realizes he can still be a meaningful force and influence even if he isn't the scoring leader for the league or the 76ers. Until the next retirement, we just have to sit back and watch...while most won't, I'll continue to hope for the best.

That's it for today's quick hit. Join us later today for our ongoing Games of the Decade countdown. Oh yeah, apparently Tiger Woods's name is still in the news today. You can bet you'll get our uniquely Yoderized take on that tomorrow. Until then, it's bye for now!