SPORTS: Iverson: 'I am going through some very tough times'

Recently, things have been bad for Allen Iverson(notes). His daughter's illness, release from the 76ers, divorce and accusations of drinking and gambling problems have surfaced in the past few weeks.

The Philadephia Inquirer's Stephen A. Smith had hinted at them previously, but over the weekend, he shed light on Iverson's problems.

If numerous NBA sources are telling the truth - and there's no reason to believe they'd do otherwise in a situation of this magnitude - Iverson will either drink himself into oblivion or gamble his life away.

Smith continues, saying that Iverson had been banned from casinos in Detroit and Atlantic City. It's all bad, but through it all, Iverson has remained silent.

Until now, that is. From his Twitter account we get this response from Iverson:

To my fans: You all know that my life isn't perfect. I am going through some very tough times right now, like I am sure that we all do from time to time. However, I will stand tall like always with "rhino" thick skin. Even though I have become used to hearing people say things about me that aren't true, it still hurts. I encourage you to continue your ongoing support and I want you to trust that this is another obstacle in my life that, with God's help I will overcome. God Bless You All.

It's not much, but it's his first public statement. And, I guess, there's Iverson's denial about something, though it's pretty unclear what he's denying.

We wish things get better for you Allen.

Source: Trey Kerby Yahoo Sports