Allen Iverson ‘honored’ by Naomi Osaka’s awesome tribute at US Open

Tennis and basketball shared the spotlight at the US Open on Monday after Naomi Osaka paid tribute to Allen Iverson.

Osaka copied Iverson’s trademark look—cornrows, headband, elbow sleeve, and arm sleeve—in her first-round match against Anastasia Zakharova at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. Osaka beat Zakharova in three sets.

Even before facing Zakharova, Osaka wore a shirt featuring Iverson’s iconic cover for SLAM. The world No. 13 said the NBA legend is a “trailblazer” and someone she looks up to a lot for his flair and swag.

“He’s shifted the way that NBA players dress. I also think the whole conversation around clothes in sports and also just expressing yourself through style, I feel like he’s someone that I look up to in that regard,” said Osaka.

Iverson was pleased with Osaka’s comment and reposted it on Instagram.

“Wow, what an honor! BIG FAN. Can’t wait to meet you, @naomiosaka,” wrote the Hall of Famer.

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The one-time MVP is one of the biggest game-changers in sports history because of his cultural impact. He was a rebel with his self-expression and unapologetic attitude. Because of his streetwear style, the NBA was forced to impose a dress code.

Iverson was equally influential on the court, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals in 2001. Despite his size, he was fearless. Many consider the one-time MVP the best pound-for-pound player the NBA has ever seen.

Osaka will face Katerina Siniakova in the second round of the US Open on Wednesday. Do not be surprised if Iverson is spotted in the crowd, rooting for the four-time Grand Slam champion.

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