Iverson Gives His Mother Credit For Rookie Award

Allen Iverson credited his mother for helping him become the first Philadelphia 76er to be named the league’s rookie of the year Thursday.

“I wouldn’t be anywhere near the NBA without my mom,” he said. “She gave me the heart I have now.”

Ann Iverson interrupted her son as he spoke, rushing to give him a hug and a kiss. “This is your award,” he said, handing the statute to his mother. “I love you.”

Iverson’s 23.5 points-per-game average led all rookies and was sixth in the league overall. He also ranked seventh overall in steals (157), eighth in minutes (40.1 per game), 11th in assists (567) and 13th in 3-point baskets (155).

Iverson received 44 of a possible 115 votes. Minnesota’s Stephon Marbury was second with 35. Vancouver’s Shareef Abdur-Rahim was third with 25 votes.

Pitino tired of talk

Rick Pitino wants a deal with Kentucky that would end annual speculation about his taking a pro coaching job.

“If I am back next year, and I intend to be, it’s going to be with a long-term contract,” said Pitino, speaking at a pro-am golf tournament at Hoover, Ala.