ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, May 2, 1996 TAG: 9605020030
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: The Washington Post
WASHINGTON
THE GEORGETOWN GUARD says his family needs are his top consideration.
Ever since he first set foot on the basketball court at McDonough Gym, Allen Iverson dazzled Georgetown fans with his speed. It helped put him among the nation's elite college basketball players. After announcing Wednesday he would forgo his final two years of eligibility and enter the NBA draft, his swift departure puts him in a separate class from the other great players who have attended Georgetown during John Thompson's 24 years as head coach.
Past stars such as Patrick Ewing and Alonzo Mourning remained at school through their senior years. Iverson is leaving after his sophomore season.
``After carefully weighing my options with Coach Thompson and my family, I've decided to enter the NBA,'' Iverson said at a news conference. ``I definitely plan to further my education, but my family needs have to be addressed right now.''
Iverson said those included the medical needs of his 4-year-old sister, Iiesha, whom he said suffers from seizures, his 1-year-old daughter Tiaura ``and just help my mom along.''
``She raised me for 20 years and did the best she could,'' said Iverson, a first-team All-American who averaged 25 points, 4.7 assists and 3.4 rebounds this past season. ``Now I just want an opportunity to do something for her, and my little sisters and my daughter.''
The NBA draft is June 26, and Iverson is expected to be among the earliest selections.
``He's a terrific player, no question,'' said Ernie Grunfeld, the New York Knicks' general manager. ``He has great speed and quickness, great energy. He's going to be one of the top three picks - top two or three.''
LENGTH: Short : 42 lines ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO: (headshot) Iverson.by CNB