A stranger has made a 12-year-old cancer fighter’s day after travelling hours to surprise the boy who was let down by his NBA hero, Allen Iverson.

Last month, Eli Stevenson told 10 News Plus that Iverson was a “jerk”, slamming the former player over a planned meet-and-greet with a group of children battling cancer that didn’t go to plan.

The story caught the attention of a local good Samaritan, who arranged a visit to brighten Eli’s day.

Chris Packman drove two hours from Bendigo to Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, gifting the young boy a stack of NBA merchandise.

“I naturally felt a bit deflated by what happened… wanted to do something to make him happier and brighten his day,” Packman said.

He delivered hats, toys, shoes and even one of his most prized possessions – a signed Iverson jersey – to cheer up Eli.

“Makes me feel great. I think it’s a really nice thing for someone to do,” Eli said.

Eli’s mother, Jess Stevenson, added: “It restores your faith in humanity a little bit, and there are nice people.”

The youngster and his new basketball buddy Chris share the same home town and are now looking forward to playing a game together when Eli finishes his chemotherapy and returns home.

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