NBA: Top 7 dream 1-on-1 Matchups

For the longest time, basketball players, professionals and otherwise have honed their skills on the court playing 1-on-1 games. It's a judge of who the "alpha" is. It's a test of not just your skill with the ball, but your will to win as well. The stakes are high and there are no excuses, a 1-on-1 matchup is a classic "who's better-settler".

The NBA has had some phenomenal players throughout its history. And how we wish some players from different eras could have played at the same time. While that isn't possible, we can always indulge in some wishful hardcourt-fantasies.

Hence, we bring you 7 dream 1-on-1 Matchups of players from present and past that we would love to see.The players considered are in their primes, and they play a series of 7 games of 1-on-1 (game of 11). The first one to 4 wins. Let's get started.

#1 Allen Iverson vs Kyrie Irving

A game that would be dominated by endless crossovers, an exuberant display of handles and jaw-dropping finishes at the rim, this matchup includes respective ROTYs(rookie of the year). While neither is/was known for their defensive prowess, these two highly skilled offensive players make for a mouth-watering 1-on-1 contest.

Allen Iverson (AI) changed the game in more ways than one. The recently christened Hall of Famer (class of 2016) brought a cultural revolution that left its imprint on his contemporaries and the upcoming generation alike. From LeBron James to Kristaps Porzingis, AI impacted players and people worldwide.

But what is the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of AI? This:

The man crossed up Michael "THE GOAT" Jordan. This crossover cemented AI's place in basketball mythology forever. Allen Iverson wore his heart on his sleeve, combining his skill with the ball with his fearless attitude. Always playing with a chip on his shoulder, AI became a beacon of hope for all the 'little guys' (AI was only 6 feet tall, short by NBA standards) out there. His 'never quit attitude' led him to the NBA Finals in 2001 against the 'Shaq & Kobe Lakers' where his team lost, but AI had already won hearts forever.

Just ask Kobe.

AI goes up against Kyrie Irving.

Irving has long been in the conversation for having the best handles in the league along with Stephen Curry. His handles are so good, AI himself admitted to Kyrie having better handles than him. Now while AI might be indulging in some modesty, Kyrie can dazzle you with an array of moves and finish at the rim in the blink of an eye. And he can shoot the ball from the 3pt line.

What's more?

He is one of the most clutch players out there. Here's some proof:

Kyrie drained a clutch 3-pointer that sealed the Cleveland Cavaliers' victory in the 2016 NBA finals. Since then, he has moved to Boston to probably prove he can win a ring without LeBron and that just showcases his will to get better. Mamba Mentality, anyone?

So then, who wins a game of 1-on-1? Is it AI or is it Kyrie?

Prime Kyrie is a better shooter than Prime AI. But Prime AI is more athletic, a tad bit quicker than Prime Kyrie. Also, AI has the most devastating crossover the league has seen. But most importantly, AI has no 'quit' in him. This very rare killer will and never die attitude is something that impacts a 1 on 1 matchup hugely. And this is what gives AI an edge over Kyrie.

Verdict: In a series of 7 games of 1-on-1, Prime Allen Iverson edges out Prime Kyrie Irving 4 games to 3. It will be really close. But it's a game of 1-on-1 and well AI is....AI.