Brown Changes Mind, Wants Iverson Back

Allen Iverson doesn’t have to worry about trade rumors. Coach Larry Brown plans to keep him in Philadelphia.

One day after the star guard expressed displeasure with Brown for indicating that he could be traded, the 76ers’ coach said Wednesday that last year’s NBA most valuable player isn’t going anywhere.

“I told him, ‘You can tell your daughter not to worry about it. Daddy’s going to be living in Philadelphia,’” Brown said.

In a 30-minute news conference Tuesday, an emotional Iverson lashed out against questions about his practice habits, said he was bothered by criticism from Brown and hurt that his 7-year-old daughter, Tiaura, had to endure questions about it.

“It seemed to me that was a young kid reaching out for help. His feelings were obviously hurt,” Brown said.

Brown and General Manager Billy King had a long meeting Tuesday with Iverson in which Brown assured Iverson he wouldn’t be traded.

“I know he wants to do what’s right,” Brown said.

“I’ve been with him five years, and every day hasn’t been great. But I’ve seen tremendous growth, I’ve seen him improve as a player and I’ve seen him accomplish a great deal and I’m hopeful with me being here I can continue to see him getting better.”

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Charlotte Hornet forward Jamal Mashburn will sit out his sixth consecutive playoff game today because of a viral infection, the team said.

Mashburn won’t play in tonight’s Game 3 against the visiting New Jersey Nets, who lead the series, 2-0.

Coach Paul Silas said that the virus and B-12 deficiency have left Mashburn dizzy and weak.