Los Angeles  - Allen "The Answer" Iverson apparently failed to live up to his nickname for the Memphis Grizzlies, and the two unhappy parties have decided to part ways.

"The Grizzlies and Allen Iverson have come to a mutual agreement that because of personal matters that forced him to leave the team on November 7, Allen will step away from the game at this time, allowing him to focus on those matters," Memphis general manager and vice president of basketball operations Chris Wallace said in a statement on the team's website.

"As a result, we will be ending our contractual agreement with Allen, which will allow both parties to move forward. We wish Allen the best."

Iverson, who complained about his reserve role, took a leave of absence on November 7 to deal with personal issues, after averaging 12.3 points and 3.7 assists in three games since returning from a hamstring injury.

The move came hours after Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley told Iverson he wanted an answer about his playing future with the team in the next few days, and he wouldn't accept uncertainty about the former league MVP beyond this week, according to the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

Heisley said he'd be willing to waive the 34-year-old Iverson or trade him in a reasonable deal if that's the request. However, the Grizzlies can't trade him until December 15. (dpa)