philly

Sixers out to conquer new world with Alien

by Ted Taylor
For the Daily News

The Sixers recently called on television's "Favorite Martian," Ray Walston, to help promote the latest collectible to hit the market, a little, green, bug-eyed doll named "Alien" Iverson.

Some might say Allen Iverson's behavior resembles an alien, on and off the court, but none would argue he is one of the NBA's most exciting superstars.

The Iverson doll is the joint creation of the 76ers' marketing and communications department and the Idea Factory, which produces a line of "Meanies" beanbag toys.

The Sixers will give away the "Alien" Iverson dolls tomorrow night when they host the Indiana Pacers. The figure comes complete with a goatee and corn rows. "Alien" Iverson, however, is green and covered with tattoos that might challenge the artwork normally on display when Dennis Rodman takes the court. Allen Iverson spins a basketball in his finger, "Alien" Iverson spins a globe. The new doll is a lot smaller than his human alter-ego, standing just 8 inches high.

The Sixers will give away 5,000 of the little, green creatures to kids under 12, but it's a safe bet many of them will go home in the company of adult collectors. Rold Gold Pretzels sponsors the giveaway. According to Sixers communications director Karen Frascona, only 7,500 Iverson dolls are being made. Walston, a longtime TV favorite from "My Favorite Martian," appeared in promotional spots.

"We believe that combining one of the hottest trends in collectibles [beanbag toys] with one of the hottest players [Iverson] is a winning combination," said Dave Coskey, Sixers vice president of marketing and operations.

Based in New York City, the Idea Factory is a toy and novelty company founded by Lance Kushner and Glenn Rudin. The line of outrageous and irreverent Meanies includes Splat the Road Kill Kat and Bull Clinton. Both are among the hottest collectibles right now.