How Good Was Julius Erving
Julius Erving, also known as “Dr. J”, is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential basketball players of all time. He was known for his high-flying dunks, his fluid and graceful movements on the court, and his ability to play above the rim. But just how good was Julius Erving? Let’s take a closer look at his career and legacy.
Erving began his professional career in the American Basketball Association (ABA) in 1971, playing for the Virginia Squires. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier players, averaging 27.3 points and 15.7 rebounds per game in his rookie season. Erving’s combination of athleticism, skill, and showmanship made him a fan favorite, and he quickly became the face of the ABA. In 1974, Erving was traded to the New York Nets, where he continued to dominate the league. He won three ABA championships with the Nets and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player three times. His scoring average of 28.7 points per game during his ABA career is still the second-highest in league history.
Erving’s success in the ABA caught the attention of the NBA, and in 1976, after the merger, he joined Philadelphia 76ers. Despite having to adjust to a new league and new teammates, Erving quickly established himself as one of the best players in the NBA. In just his first season with the team, he led them to the NBA Finals, where they ultimately lost to the Portland Trail Blazers. But Erving’s individual performance during the series was nothing short of spectacular, as he averaged an incredible 30.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. He also went on to win the NBA MVP award in 1981 and led the 76ers to the NBA Finals three times, winning the championship in 1983.
Erving’s career numbers are impressive: he scored 30,026 points, grabbed 10,525 rebounds, and dished out 5,176 assists over the course of his career. He was named an All-Star 16 times and was a five-time member of the All-NBA First Team. But statistics alone don’t capture the essence of what made Erving such a special player.
Erving was a true innovator, bringing a new style of play to the game of basketball. He was one of the first players to consistently play above the rim, executing breathtaking dunks that had never been seen before. He was also a master of the fast break, using his speed and agility to outrun defenders and finish with acrobatic layups.
But Erving’s impact went beyond his individual skills. He was a team player who always put winning first. He was known for his unselfishness on the court, and his ability to make his teammates better. He was also a leader, both on and off the court, and was respected by his teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
When you talk about the most influential players in NBA history, Julius Erving’s name is always on the top of that list. His influence on the game of basketball is still felt today. He was a cultural icon, known for his signature afro and stylish outfits, which helped to bring basketball into the mainstream. His style of play paved the way for a new generation of players, including great names such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.
In conclusion, Julius Erving was a once-in-a-generation player who left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. His combination of skill, athleticism, and showmanship made him a fan favorite, while his unselfishness and leadership made him a true champion. Erving’s impact on the game will be felt for generations to come, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. If you ever get the chance to watch footage of him playing, do yourself a favor and take it. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.