Iverson will be lone All-Star for Pistons this year

January 23, 1:23 PMDetroit Pistons ExaminerShannon McKeown

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The Pistons are only going to be sending one representative to Phoenix for this year's All-Star Game. And his name is Allen Iverson.

Iverson was voted in by the fans to start alongside Dwayne Wade in the Eastern Conference's backcourt.

The selection marks AI's 10th trip to the midseason festivities. And according to some, it just might be the first of those ten selections that isn't justified.

Many members of the media have been voicing their disapproval over Iverson's selection.

The most common reason mentioned for AI being unworthy of the nod is his declining stats. Ok, so a player who averages 18 points and five assists isn't exactly filling up the stat sheet. But those stats are on par with previous All-Star selections like Manu Ginobili, Sam Cassell, Tony Parker, Eddie Jones, Richard Hamilton and Chauncey Billups.

The only reason AI's selection is getting knocked is because his stats before this season have been so astronomical. It's unfair to expect a player nearing the twilight of his career to continue posting league-best numbers. Did Michael Jordan score 30 points per game with the Wizards?

Iverson's inclusion in the starting lineup means many other players have been snubbed. Players like Danny Granger, Jameer Nelson, Devin Harris and Joe Johnson all have legitimate beefs about not being selected to the starting five. But they have a decent chance to be named when the coaches vote for the reserves next week.

One thing is sure though, we won't be seeing any other Pistons named to the reserve roster.

While it would be nice to see Tayshaun Prince finally rewarded for his many unsung accomplishments, but it won't happen this year. Nor will we see Rodney Stuckey sporting the spiffy new All-Star jersey.

Iverson will be the lone representative from Motown.

There are too many other deserving players for the coaches to choose from. And, quite frankly, with the way the Pistons have underachieved, they don't deserve multiple selections.