NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Allen Iverson returned to Hampton Roads to be honored by the community.
On Tuesday, a street sign named after the star athlete was unveiled in Newport News. "Allen Iverson Way" will be located between Wickham Ave. and Walnut Ave., according to the city.
WATCH: Allen Iverson's street dedication
Mayor Phillip Jones said although Iverson is from Hampton, the community sees him as an "honorary son" of Newport News.
Newport News
Allen Iverson will have a street named after him in Newport News
Iverson himself attended the street dedication. Gov. Youngkin, Rep. Bobby Scott, James "Poo" Johnson, Marcellus "Boo" Williams, Jr. and Philadelphia 76ers Vice President Mike Goings also spoke at the event.
During his speech, Iverson paid homage to the people he grew up around.
"Being from Virginia and me changing the culture, everybody talks about how A.I. changed the culture, man that was cause of you dudes in here and you women in here," said Iverson.
He credited his success in the league to many loved ones, especially his mother, Ann.
"My mom told me when I was 8 years old that I could be anything I wanted to be, and I actually believed her, because she told me that I could be who I am today," said Iverson.
Iverson played high school basketball and football at Bethel High. The school named its gymnasium and basketball court after the NBA Hall of Famer.
He played college basketball at Georgetown University, leaving after his sophomore season to declare for the NBA draft. He was picked up by the Philadelphia 76ers - the first overall pick in his draft class.
From there, he led a prolific career and was selected to 11 NBA All-Star rosters during his 17 seasons in the league. He officially retired in 2013.
In previous interviews with News 3, Iverson said he's just as proud of his work off the court. His efforts to give back to the community he grew up in include donating a new court to the Greater Hampton Roads Boys & Girls Club in Newport News, donating Christmas presents in Portsmouth, organizing tournaments for young athletes in the area and more.
News 3 reporter Kelsey Jones emceed Iverson's street dedication. Watch the full event in the video above.
