Allen Iverson played just three games with Memphis after signing with the Grizzlies in September. (Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Allen Iverson is set to retire from the NBA, according to an online report, but a couple of coaches aren't totally convinced it's really the end for the former league most valuable player.

Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Stephen A. Smith, formerly of ESPN, published a statement on his website Wednesday attributed to Iverson, 34.

The statement seemed to come from a player reluctantly making the decision.

"I still have tremendous love for the game, the desire to play, and a whole lot left in my tank. I feel strongly that I can still compete at the highest level."

The 10-time all-star played three games this season with Memphis before taking a leave of absence to attend to personal matters. Unhappy with the amount of time he spent on the bench in his few games with the Grizzlies, he was waived after the two sides agreed to part ways.

The announcement Wednesday came as a surprise to George Karl, who coached Iverson last year in Denver.

"I think he still has something left to give some team out there," Karl said. "If that's his decision, he'll go down in history, I think, as the greatest little guard ever to play the game of basketball.

"I was happy to have him for a couple years and hopefully our paths will cross. But I have a sneaky feeling that somewhere along the way an injury or a circumstance with a team will open that window back up."

Iverson split last season between the Denver Nuggets and Detroit Pistons, averaging 17.5 points, five assists and three rebounds in 57 games.

Boston coach Doc Rivers also doesn't think the league has seen the last of Iverson.

"I don't ever believe anyone retires until they get to the point they have to," Rivers said before his team's game against Philadelphia on Wednesday. "He had a great career if it is true, but I still think he has more to offer."

Iverson spent his prime years with the 76ers, and the published statement ends with a special thanks to the Philadelphia fans.

In 889 games, the guard has averaged 27 points, 6.2 assists and 2.2. steals. The NBA's most valuable player in 2000-01, he led the league in scoring on four occasions.

The Associated Press left messages about the retirement report for Iverson's agent, Leon Rose, and his business manager, Gary Moore.

With files from CBCSports.ca