IVERSON LEAVES 76ers INDEFINITELY
02/23/2010

Allen Iverson has taken an indefinite leave from the 76ers to tend to his sick daughter.

The Answer has already missed five games for Philly this month due to his child's illness - and, despite being voted a starter by the fans, was unable to participate in All-Star weekend.

"At this time, we feel that it is in the best interest of the Sixers, Allen and his family that he be allowed to deal with a very serious issue that is far greater than the game of basketball," team president and GM Ed Stefanski said in a statement.

Iverson briefly returned to action last week, playing in games against the Heat, Spurs and Bulls, but was largely ineffective, averaging just eight points while shooting .250 from the field. The 76ers won four of five during his absence earlier this month but lost two of three after his return.

In fact, Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the team's uneven play surrounding Iverson's uncertain status has led some within the organization to consider a "permanent break."

Iverson is with his family to deal with medical issues concerning his daughter, but his constant in-and-out of the lineup this season has led team officials to believe a permanent break is best for the organization.

Sources say Sixers coach Eddie Jordan addressed the players on Sunday, and told them there's a chance Iverson may not return to the team. However, Sixers ownership, general manager Ed Stefanski and Jordan haven't sat down and formally come to that decision, but sources with knowledge of the Sixers plans believe the franchise is leaning in that direction.