NBA Insider: Iverson on leave for family issue, not to sulk
Memphis Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley is insistent that guard Allen Iverson left the team Saturday to return to his home in Atlanta for personal reasons, not because he's upset about not starting.
"I'm the guy who said he could go. It's a real family issue that I don't think should be reported," Heisley told The (Memphis) Commercial Appeal.
Iverson had eight points and three assists in 21 minutes as a reserve in Friday's loss at the Los Angeles Lakers. He worked out with the team Saturday before leaving.
"It's a personal issue that they asked for permission to go attend to," said coach Lionel Hollins, who met with Iverson and his manager. "It was granted, and it's indefinite."
Iverson, 34, is averaging career lows in scoring (12.3 points) and minutes (22) after three games.
Hill on the glass:Phoenix Suns forward Grant Hill, 37, got his fourth double-double of the season Sunday vs. the Washington Wizards; he had five all last season. Hill is averaging 8.7 rebounds a game, his best since 2001-02 with the Orlando Magic.
"He's just done a great job. He plays with such passion. He's such a smart player. He's just a coach's dream," Suns coach Alvin Gentry said. "Everybody should have the opportunity to coach one guy like him."
Howard returns:Dallas Mavericks swingman Josh Howard played in his first game Saturday since offseason ankle surgery and had 16 points, four rebounds and three steals in the 129-101 victory vs. the Toronto Raptors.
"I have to work through the process of getting back to 100%, which I am not," said Howard, who played with a "small cast" on his left ankle. "But ... I had a good time out there."
No comments:
Post a Comment