*A photographer who shot retired NBA star Allen Iverson ever since he turned pro is offering his work in a limited edition coffee table book available Dec. 1, titled, AI: Allen Iverson.
Gary Land, a commercial advertising photographer based in Boston, says his book features snaps from Iverson’s career with the Philadelphia 76ers as well as candid off-the-court shots of him and his son, and “stirring photographs of private moments of reflection and renewal.”
Land says he had unprecedented, exclusive access to Allen’s inner circle, and his never-before-seen images reflect a side of the player that few knew existed.
Land writes on the book’s website:
For the better part of eight years my job was to photograph Allen Iverson on and off the court. Our relationship was based on respect and trust. Whenever I got the shot we would move on and Allen appreciated that. I would always keep it simple and because of that, he gave me his time and attention. It was the perfect combination, I loved to take pictures and he loved having his picture taken. During those years I got to see sides of Al that very few people ever get to see. I sat on the floor of some of his best games and I watched him sweat it out during practices. I stood next to him during all of his commercials, and have been to several of his homes and watched him play with his kids.
I was with him during 9/11 and watched as he shed tears for the victims. I rode in his car and listened to 40 bars before anyone else heard it, and played him in H.O.R.S.E. at least a half dozen times… and still have yet to win a game.
I have been working on this book since 2002, but for reasons out of my control it was never completed… that is until now. With Allen’s induction into the Hall of Fame, I couldn’t think of a more perfect time to release it. This book is dedicated to the fans, the believers, and the legend himself, Allen Iverson.
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