Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, June 3, 1994 TAG: 9406070109
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-7 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: By DOUG DOUGHTY STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Larry Woodward, an attorney for the Virginia Beach law firm that represents Iverson, said the letter was signed April 19 and that Iverson plans to enroll in the fall.
Georgetown confirmed Iverson's signing in an announcement Thursday afternoon.
``Allen's mother approached me in early December and asked for my help,'' said John Thompson, the Hoyas' coach. ``After many in-depth interviews, I was convinced that he should be given an opportunity at Georgetown, provided he satisfactorily completes his high school educational requirements.
``The university has been true to its educational mission by considering this young man in spite of his recent troubles. It is now Allen's responsibility to make the most of this opportunity.''
Woodward said Iverson is on schedule to receive his high school diploma during the summer.
Iverson, a 6-foot-1 guard, led Bethel High School of Hampton to the Group AAA championship in 1993, but he did not return for his senior year following his conviction July 12, 1993, on three counts of maiming by mob.
Iverson, arrested in connection with a brawl at a Hampton bowling alley in February 1993, served more than three months at a minimum-security city farm before he was granted clemency by Gov. Douglas Wilder on Dec.31.
Some of the stipulations of the clemency were that Iverson continue his education, observe a curfew and not participate in organized athletics.
``The clemency ends in August,'' Woodward said. ``Assuming that the charges are not overturned, he will remain on parole, but under slightly different conditions.''
Woodward said his firm of Shuttleworth, Ruloff, Giordano and Kahle will represent Iverson on June 6 before a three-judge Richmond appeals panel in an attempt to have the charges dismissed or a new trial declared.
Iverson was a Parade All-American in football and basketball after leading Bethel to state championships in both sports during the 1992-93 school year. He also was named Mr. Basketball in Virginia by the Roanoke Times & World-News after averaging 31.6 points that season.
by CNB