The Bulls took themselves out of the running for Allen Iverson yesterday, while the Sixers are still hopeful that they can wind up with Chicago's Ben Gordon, along with expiring contracts, when they trade their disgruntled superstar.

According to several league execs, the Bulls decided they do not want to bring Iverson and his headstrong attitude to a team featuring many young players. The Bulls also did not think that Iverson and coach Scott Skiles could co-exist. Iverson missed his third straight game last night, as the Sixers continued to hold discussions to trade him.

Although the Bulls don't want Iverson, they still might be involved in a three-way deal, with Golden State ending up with Iverson.

In the three-way scenario, the Warriors would send power forward Troy Murphy to Chicago as part of a package of players.

The Sixers are intrigued by Gordon, who has had his ups and downs with Skiles, even as he has emerged as a promising young scorer.

Other Bulls mentioned going to Philly in a potential deal have been P.J. Brown and ex-Knick Michael Sweetney, each in the final year of his contract.

Iverson's nameplate was gone and his locker was cleaned out last night in Philly.