The 2023 Iverson Classic
The Iverson Classic, also known as the Iverson Classic All-Star Game, is a high school basketball game that was first held in 2017. It is named after former NBA star Allen Iverson, who is known for his iconic playing style and impact on the game of basketball. The Iverson Classic brings together some of the top high school basketball players in the country to compete against each other in a showcase event.
Kentucky Signee Justin Edwards drives to the rim at the 2023 Iverson Classic (Photo Courtesy of Tevon Bennett)
The first Iverson Classic was held in Virginia, and subsequent events have been held in other locations around the country. The game features two teams, each of which is made up of twelve players. The players are selected by a committee of basketball experts, and the event also includes skills competitions such as a three-point shooting contest and a dunk contest.
This year there was an incredible amount of talent on display. Every single player was an elite HS basketball player but there were a few players that were just a cut above the rest. DJ Wagner, AJ Johnson, and Justin Edwards were the cream of the crop from this group as they each collected MVP honors. The game was action packed with game being decided in the closing minutes of the game.
Every year Allen Iverson and his team gets the best High School ballers from around the country to play in his All American game. Here, Elmarko Jackson soars to the hoop. He’ll be a Kansas Jayhawks next season. (Photo courtesy of Tevon Bennett)
Wagner & Edwards will be teammates at The University of Kentucky next season, while AJ Johnson has signed with the Illawarra Hawks of the NBL in Australia next season. All three are expected to be NBA prospects and barring any unforeseen setbacks, the each should be lottery picks in upcoming NBA Drafts.
DJ Wagner — This was my first time seeing DJ play in person. He was a very skilled PG who didn’t let anybody dictate the tempo that he wanted to play. He doesn’t waste any dribbles and is highly confident on the court. The Kentucky Wildcat signee is as tough as nails and uses his strong frame to instill his will on weaker opponents. He has a solid jumper and will pick and choose his spots at his leisure. I am looking forward to watching him at the next level.
AJ Johnson — Johnson was my favorite player to watch at the Iverson Classic. The 6’5 Point Guard could do it all. He has a sneaky athleticism that will definitely resonate at the next level. He makes great decisions during the flow of the game and shows poise to be such a young player. He is already rumored to be amongst the top picks in the 2024 NBA draft and I’m excited to see how his game develops over the course of next year.
Justin Edwards — The Kentucky Wildcat signee is a 6’8 swing man who can score the basketball at multiple levels. At the Iverson Classic, it was about having fun, but he got a chance to show the world what to expect at Kentucky. He can shoot, defend, rebound and a mid range assassin. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.
Other Iverson Classic notable players include: Elmarko Jackson (Kansas), Trey Parker (OTE/ NC State) and Robert Dillingham (OTE).
One of the best aspects of the Iverson Classic is the former basketball players who come back and coach. Guys like Stephen Jackson, Tim Thomas, Larry Hughes, Lenny Cooke, Kareem Reid, and more… all come aboard the Iverson Classic coaching staff to help give advice to the young ballers. They have each been there and lend valuable experience to the high schoolers participating. You can’t get that type of expertise anywhere. The stars came out and made the event a magical evening of elite High School basketball.
Former NBA player Stephen Jackson has been a staple of the Iverson Classic brand. As a former All American, Jackson brings knowledge, experience and a passion to help the next generation to the forefront. (Photo courtesy of Tevon Bennett)
One notable aspect of the Iverson Classic is that it does not have restrictions on shoe brands, allowing players to wear whatever brand of shoes they prefer. This has led to some players wearing rare or customized shoes that have become collector’s items for sneaker enthusiasts.
The Iverson Classic has become one of the premier basketball showcases in the country. They always put on a first class showcase. (Photo courtesy of Tevon Bennett)
The Iverson Classic has quickly become one of the premier high school basketball events in the country, with many of the players who participate going on to have successful careers at the college and professional levels. Its emphasis on high-level competition and individual skills showcases also makes it a popular event for fans of the sport.
***Cover Photo courtesy of @IversonClassic IG