You know a documentary is top notch when you end up watching the entire thing even though you were randomly flipping through videos and no intention of sitting on the bedroom floor for over an hour watching highlights of one man. Damn this was too good to stop. Well done.
This video is my life on film. Growing up in Philadelphia at EXACTLY this time, I was in 9th grade when we got Doctor J from the Nets. No words can describe the disbelief and JOY that HE was coming to PHILLY to play for the Sixers. All my roots as a complete "basketball lunatic" started with Julius Winfield Erving II arriving in town to join the Sixers. We bought tickets in the rafters of ths Spectrum and swooned while Doc "operated". For the entirety of his career in Philadelphia, we swelled with pride because WE had Doc.
My father worked for the NETS in the front office, and this man NEVER left until EVERY autograph was signed, and that all of his sneakers and socks of that day were given away. I personally still have 8 pairs of game used sneakers, but have no idea from what games. But I'll give you a GREAT story about THE DOC, this man would drive a Rolls Royce, and he would start his car and warm it up. But, while he did that, he signed EVERY single autograph and I can tell you this, one time it was 22 BELOW and about 30 kids were waiting for him. He didn't even have a coat on and he still signed every signature until every kid was happy. THIS WAS NIGHTLY, and THIS, is who DR. J TRULY IS... THAT'S WHY HE IS CLASS, AND THE ONLY PERSON CLOSE TO HIM WAS WALTER PAYTON....BUT JULIUS ERVING IS STILL THE KING.
@M Is this a video about soccer? Or what game is the worlds' most popular sport? NO so why even bring it up? Can't tell if you're being a douche or just a troll!!!
I remember my father doing Dr J moves on the court. I even remember seeing my Dad being glued to the tv during basketball season; and watching The Doctor do his thing.
Dr. J = GOAT. He changed basketball forever. He came along and made basketball exciting to watch. Suddenly games were on prime time because everybody wanted to see Dr. J..
Julius Erving is and always has been class personified! He's not an athlete he's an artist!!! His game inspired kids like me to be better than what we were, because we all knew there was only gonna be one DR J!
Hats off to the man who saved professional basketball. A great athlete , the ambassador of basketball, and a real gentleman. May health and happiness follow him for the rest of his life.
@@williamsmith920 it's pro basketball not just the nba, and dr. j paved the way for the two of them, it takes dozens of big names to save the NBA, larry and magic were just the last names we remember when it took flight, but the doctor was the pilot who took over the runway and first made it airborne. #topoftheclassisdrj
@@williamsmith920 Who was the following mirror image to Dr. J? MJ! So, while Larry and Magic actually played with him (jealous!) it was actually Jordan who people looked up to because he was the Dr J that nobody ever saw. Did everything the Dr did; up and under the rim shots, even the foul line dunk! His idol... Ironically, MJ had a son who also died in a car accident and had a brother who got sick and died. Though it never took him 7 seasons to win a championship, it did take him a few years to do so. So there was no saving the NBA the Dr. paved the way!!
Wow. How can this man not ever come up in the GOAT discussions. He changed the game of basketball to what it is today. What a great documentary. Sadly I rmember the time when he lost his son living here in Orlando. We love ya Doc.
That 83 team should be considered one of the greatest of all time, too. Like Moses said "Fo, fo, fo." Even though they did lose one to a great Bucks team.
I’m 59 years old from East St Louis and Chicago. Doctor J was and still is my favorite basketball player of all time. No one had seen anything like him on a basketball ball court. He started the isolation game. They use to take 4 guys to the other side of the court and you had to follow your player to the other side. He would then take his man to the hoop and dunk on him. If the Center rotated to protect the rim he would dunk on him to. He could not be stopped going to the rim, he started hang time, floating, and gliding. I was 16 and played basketball in high school. I spent hours on the court learning how to reverse layup , gliding, hanging one hand finger rolls. Later on I worked as a cook at the Rivera Hotel and he use to bring his family and kids there every year from 1977 to 1983 during our Hall of fame golf tournaments. I have pictures with him, I cut his prime ribs, fed his wife and kids. I shook his hands, and his fingers could go to the middle of my forearm. He was always nice and classy with everyone. DR. J and Ali will always be my sports heroes.
Yeah he had the 3 things which made his game incredible were his vertical jump, his hang time, and his huge hands. I wish I was old enough to see him play in game... I was lucky enough to see Jordan play but not Dr. J ... the reason we have the goat Jordan ... i’m sure Jordan would not be the same player he became without Dr. J
Also what do u mean his middle finger could go to the middle of your forearm? From the bottom of your hand? If it is then that’s really not that impressive but I know that he had gigantic hand so I’m guessing that it’s from the top of your hand
Also what do u mean his middle finger could go to the middle of your forearm? From the bottom of your hand? If it is then that’s really not that impressive but I know that he had gigantic hands so I’m guessing that it’s from the top of your hand
RoyD RaGe I met him numerous times when I was a cook at the Rivera hotel Las Vegas. He used to bring the wife and kids ever year after the seasons was over. I shook his hand when I was 17. His finger tips went up to my forearms. You are correct just like DR J got his game from Elgin Baylor, Jordan got his game from DR J and made it better.
RoyD RaGe when you shake hands you can Normally grasp someones hand with yours. I can Palm a basketball 🏀. His fingers went to the middle of my forearms. That’s not even close to normal, I met Kawi when he played for the Spurs at a San Antonio game. Did not shake his hand but I was close enough to see him hold the basketball 🏀 with one hand. Dr J hands were larger than his, and Kawi hands are huge.
I have loved sports for over 50 yes. Julius Erving was and is my favorite basketball player/person my whole life. I consider it an honor and a blessing to have been around from the beginning of his career until he retired. And I have to mention that I begged my father for yes to take me see him play. Finally on Dr J's birthday we went. He scored 56pts. Incredible.
Hey i played for this org inHempstead Julius is like an uncle he loved my dad many of us played for Don Ryan = ken chenault mike malone Denver hc mybro steve Frm Knicks prez Tu Holloway Rob moore etc etc great place
When Dr. J left the game, I lost my interest in basketball. Hell it was all good till then...Heck I still wear converses....Happy to say I met him and still feel the same as I did them....Thank you Mr DOC J FOR THAT YOU GAVE TO ALL OF US..........JRC
His leaping ability, those long arms and huge hands, the full extension of his arm above his head with his hand gripping the ball like it was an egg, then the snapping down of the dunk at full force made it unstoppable. He was style, magic, creativity, power and athletic brilliance in one package. Off the court, a man of intelligence, articulate in his speaking ability, and all class.
I'm 54 years old and a former division 1 player back in the day. I know we've had the Bird/Magic era, the MJ, Kobe and now Lebron era, but I can't explain in words how amazing and special it was to finally see Dr. J during the ABA merger. He was doing things we had never seen before, especially in the air. He revitalized the interest in the league from 76 thru 81. Everyone wanted to be Dr. J. He changed the game.
I am 62 when I was growing up I think of three players that started doing things that hadn't been done before, Earl the pearl Monroe, pistol Pete maravitch and the most impressive Dr j ! Dr j did some of the great dunks before Jordan !
Dr. J, true legend from a 1991 graduate of the same Roosevelt High School....Rough Riders!!! I still remember playing in that gym. -1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt NY, always in my heart. - 7:08
The greatest thing about Mr. Erving is how humble he is. He's just the person he is and that's all he is to himself regardless of who or what he is to anyone and everyone else.
This man is inspiring in a way that is even more rare today than it was back then. A professional with humble beginnings who's dignity, class and innate sense of respect was on the level of a revered king. I wish figures like him were the norm in our society today.
Beautifully Said ! Thats why there's only one Dr.J. Thee King of Basketball ! I'm a Celtic fan...but you have to be realistic and recognize Greatness, it's not hard to see. Julius Erving...big heart.. A LEGEND for the rest of time..they talk about him in mars , on the moons of Jupiter. And beyond....
Truly the greatest! The 80s had magic and Larry, the 90s had Jordan, the 2000s had kobe, and we have LeBron now. In the 70s though you have to put the doctor above everyone else!
I’m 53 and Dr. J is simply one of my favorite humans. Ever. He means so much to so many. We would do well to heed his example. I know I sure have a lot to learn from this incredible man. (I was fortunate enough to briefly thank him when I played drums for an NBA off season event in Orlando which he attended. He was as gracious and kind as you would expect. The man has an aura about him that is impossible to properly convey. Simply class personified.)!Thank you Julius Erving. God Bless you and your sweet boy.
I GREW UP WITH JULIAS PLAYED FOR SAINT JOSEPHS AND VALLEY STREAM AND WE WOULD PLAY ROOSEVELT AND HEMPSTEAD, THEY WERE GOOD, MET WENDALL AT MODELLS FROM THE NETS BEFORE THE PLANE CRASH THAT KILLED WENDALL LADNER,,, I LOVE THIS VIDEO THANK YOU DR J AND THANKS FOR POSTING THIS WONDERFULL HISTORY OF LONG ISLAND , NETS ABA,
Great Documentary. I always loved Chuck D's voice. I'm 53 and remember watching Dr. J play. Being such a tomboy basketball was my favorite sport. I wasn't a 76ers fan because I was a home team fan. (The Lakers) But a fan of Dr. J. I always wanted to watch him and root for his team unless they played against our team. I watched that 82-83 Championship game series that was high lighted, man. The 76ers came in and swept and each game I still had hope. I remember my brothers saying it's over it's over. I cried like a baby, Literally. He was that player you hated because he was that good but loved because he was that good. And yes class, style, great sportsmanship, and gentlemen. Thank you Julius Erving.
Watching him and Gervin play was spectacular. The doctor was in session evaluating the frozen one. The “iceman” George Gervin and The doctor are forever legends.
My favorite athlete of all time. The Ali of basketball. I met him once after a preseason basketball game in Birmingham Al where he conversated and signed autographs for a mob of people over an hour until everyone was gone. It was just him me and my buddy. I just stood there looking at him like OMG.
I remember I was 8 yrs old when my Dad took me to see The Doctor when he played for the Nets. It's the only professional basketball game I've ever seen and I had no idea why my Dad took me. So I asked him. He told me that he wanted me to be able to see the best player that ever played the game of basketball. Now he's taken me to plenty of NFL games. Mainly Baltimore Colts and NY Giants but that ABA game just felt different. Thank you Dad for taking me and thank you Dr J for making it so memorable.
Without a doubt the greatest who ever played the game. He could do more in the air then people could do on the ground. He changed the entire game of basketball.
I've met him as he raised money for an inner city school in kc years ago. ..I told him I desired to help kids in inner city too...He looked right thru me down to the lamp of my heart, pulled out his business card, said call me, and showed me his heart was even greater than his dunks..God bless this man even now more than he has ever dreamed or hoped or ever asked...
There were a lot of great basketball players before the doc came along, but no one had ever done the things he did. He was larger than life. And just so cool about it.
Dr J has lived a public life in the right way. He is pure class. I was fortunate to see him play decades ago while he was at UMass. I lived in Maine and saw him play there. I think he went 14 for 14 , or something like that. He couldn't dunk because of the NCAA rule at the time, so he simply jumped over everyone and finger-rolled, or floated, or banked the ball in time after time. From then on I was a huge fan of his style and his character, even when the Sixers bullied my Celtics. Wonderful memories of his game and career!
Being a long-time Jordan fan I am also an admirer of Dr J, he was and still is a class-act and an all-around gentleman in and out of the courts. He deserved the championship.
Great ending.. I love the way that was shot.. (What you already know rarely needs to be seen..) The Doc was an EXAMPLE of how to be a man's man, and played the game with tenacity. I don't think he was the greatest player I've ever seen, but he might be the best HUMAN BEING that ever laced 'em up.
My most significant sports idol growing up! He was eloquent, articulate & cerebral in a manner that most athletes - let alone a black athlete - had never been viewed or perceived. Julius "Dr. J" Erving is one of the MOST significant figures in American Sports history. I can state without hesitation that this man inspired me to personally achieve at a higher level & present myself with class at "every" turn! Magic says its best Julies is God's creation of "greatness & class!"
I was able to fly like the Dr. I'm beginning to realize how special that was. I grew up in the 80s and 90s....mj was my idol. I lived in rural Nova Scotia and never picked up a basketball until I was 12. I was a late bloomer when it comes to dunking. Around my 17th birthday. I trained hard as an athlete. I drove a bike to work for 2 years which I believe was the exercise that was most responsible for my leaping ability. Eventually I realized that it was Julius Erving who inspired MJ. The Dr's impact is far reaching.
I'm in my 20's Life long Laker This brings me chills I remember my uncle telling me all the stories about the greats and this was by far his favorite! #Respect #DrJ
Some guy's you just want to root for in life and Dr J was one of them. I remember that Converse commercial from the 70's. I'm 48 and haven't seen that since 77' or whenever it came out but I still new the words before they said them. Weird what packs itself deep in your brain.
It was incredible to see the young DR J about 50 years ago when he first started playing with the Virginia Squares. His high energy, magnetic personality, & skills on the court were something Virginia had never seen.
I was born in 1976, and had never seen him play, but even I knew that he was the best player. Back in the days of my first memories of basketball, there were the Harlem Globetrotters and there was Dr. J.
When Doc lost his brother, I definitely knew how he felt, because I also lost my brother, in an automobile accident. He was only eighteen years old. It was a very difficult time.
I knew how Doctor J felt as well because I lost my brother at age 19 in a car accident and I was 17. The closeness and feeling of love never diminishes. Yes Doctor was and is GREATNESS!!!
I'm 57 n DR .J.u will always will be my # 1 n I think a hole lot of millions n millions of people would agree luv u man u are the BEST ever in the universe, respect always I'm wes
I grew up a few miles away from Erving. I saw many Nets games at the Nassau Coliseum. I saw him at a clinic at Nassau Community College. Erving was a clinic. He was virtually unknown in high school. He was a great player an an inspiration to all. He is ours....from our neighborhood. He's the greatest.
I heard of Dr. J but thought the stories were exaggerated. Then the NBA players and the ABA players arranged an All-Star game between the two rival leagues. Dr. J came down the court, left his feet at the TOP OF THE KEY, and came down slamming the ball, and it was obvious that he could have dived head first through the basket. I was standing on my feet cheering for a guy I'd never seen before. It was awesome. So great that he became a Sixer. I did a little work for the Sixers and went to one of their practices at Weidner College during the playoffs to meet some Sixer execs. I brought my eight year old son along. Practice over, all the Sixers walked off the court. But Dr J walked all the way over to the other side of the gym where we were standing and patted my son on the head. I think he still calls it the greatest moment in his life.
TOP OF THE KEY is exactly what I also witnessed a number of times. The man was incredible. The 76ers made the pre-game shoot-around something to look froward to, as they would include a dunk-around. The greatest plays (shots) are those made during a game, and he did not disappoint the crowd before or during the game.
Years ago while still in the Military had the opportunity to play against Dave Thompson, Artis Gilmore and Daryl Walker. Though they were well past their prime it was a most exciting experience. I watched Dr J most of his career. True Legend and Ultimate Ambassador of the game. Those that followed in his path owe so much respect and for the most part have lived up to the hype.
I grew up watching the Doc; nothing but class personified. I watched many stars retire, Jordan, and Jeter. But when Doc retired, I cried. Nothing but class.
He might not be considered the ' greatest ' , but in my opinion he was THEE most influential and most entertaining. As a kid growing up in the 70's and start to play basketball ( loved it since day one ) and played in school organized team league too. I went from emulating Kareem's skyhook to Dr J's moves, which was the minute when I first ever saw the doctor played on tv. I was totally glued to the television. Even to this day, there is no one else I'd rather play like than the ' doctor '. Other kids were starting to call me ' mini-Dr J '. lol. Btw, after watching the doctor played for the first time, Kareem moved to the 2nd spot as my favorite player. That was how ' influential ' and ' entertaining ' he was to me then, and now..
Any aspiring basketball player, needs to know about Doctor J. He was an innovator way before there were ridiculous multi-million dollar contracts. He played for the love of the game. He's also a first class humble human being. Show this documentary to any kid who wants to play sports. They'll learn a lot more than just about sports but also how to carry themselves. Thank you for posting this video.
Growing up in Philly in the 70's and 80's every kid would go to the playground and try and emulate Dr.J. I am fortunate to have gotten to see him play in person on numerous ocassions and each time I left feeling that I just witnessed something special in my lifetime. Dr.J IMO is a top 5 sports personality that transcended sports much like Muhammed Ali, Arthur Ashe, Jesse Owens and Michael Jordan. Thanks for posting the documentary!
Growing up on Long Island, my [and my brother's] first professional basketball game was watching Dr. J in the Island Garden Arena. It was a very eventful game. I recognized Dave DeBusschere [who was trying to blend in as a regular fan], got his autograph, and then everybody else recognized him and he was forced to eventually leave. Dave DeBusschere gave me a kidding-around dirty look and then a smile. I thought that was a pretty good day at that point. Obviously watching the Doc was just amazing, but the ending of the game made it even better. Now I'm not sure if the Doc scored the winning basket at the end or he scored after stealing the ball to put an end to the other team's attempt to tie or go ahead. But what made the steal that much more amazing was what the Doc did and the timing. He stole the ball and raced down the court w/like 6 seconds or so. Everybody says he first did his foul line dunk at a later All Star game, but the Doc raced down the court and jumped from the foul line and dunked it right at the buzzer. From that point forward and every time I drove to the hoop, I tried to emulate his moves. On certain days w/a ball w/a good grip, I was able to palm and this enabled me to sort of look like the Doc. What a great feeling. Thanks Dr. J for the memories and more.
I was in the Dr. J era and he was the MAN!! I LOVE WATCHING HIS STORY!! I HAVE GREAT COMPASSION FOR THE LOSS OF HIS BELOVED BROTHER AND HIS BELOVED SON😢 EVERYTIME I LOOK AT THIS I GET TEARY😢 BECAUSE OF HIS LOSSES. IT BROKE THAT MY HEART WHEN HE AND HIS WIFE BROKE UP.😢DR. J, MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, MUCH LOVE, TERESA
I had the pleasure of meeting The Doctor while having a drink at a fancy hotel in the country of Argentina of all places. He was there on vacation and my buddy and I didn’t want to bother him. Finally, one of our girlfriends got tired of us staring and talking about him and decided she’d had enough. She got up, walked over to him and said “Excuse me my friends would love to meet you but they don’t want to bother you. Something about a Celtics game.” He laughed and invited us to come say hello. We shook hands, chatted a bit and of course got a photo together. He was the nicest gentleman, very down to earth. I will always remember that moment, totally surreal.
I did not know anything about Dr. J aside from what other basketball stars mentioned about him over the years until I watched this.... All I can say is you are inspirational Sir from one imperfect person to another!!!
one of the best documentaries ever. The Doctor just shows you how society has deteriorated since Julius Irvings day with social media conglomerates dictating consciousness.
I truly want to thank all those involved who put this together, about one of the greatest players will play the game and change the game. Julius Winfield Irving, AKA Dr j will always be remembered, respected and admired for his uniqueness and greatness on and off the court. Dr j if you ever read this you have nothing but blessings coming from here for you and your family. THANK YOU FOR AN AD MARBLE ADVENTURE AND JOURNEY AS I WAS FORTUNATE TO SEE MOST 🙏👍😇
Nobody has ever dunked on people in games like Dr. J. Not even Michael Jordan could. MJ got his dunks on centers by catching them slightly a step behind or by getting to the rim before they could set themselves up to block his shot, but Dr. J dunked on them no matter what. The team with him, Moses, Bobby Jones, Andrew Toney, and Mauirice Cheeks was one of the greatest teams ever. Andrew Toney was a better shooter than anyone today: 3's, mid-range, and at the rim.
One of the best documentaries I've ever seen. Bird and Magic might have saved the nba, but the Doctor kept it floating long enough for them to let it shine. 1983 Philadelphia 76ers, the pinnacle of a legend. Thank you Doctor J, Magic, and Larry Legend for making me love basketball as a young kid. I mean it, thank you!!!!
You know a documentary is top notch when you end up watching the entire thing even though you were randomly flipping through videos and no intention of sitting on the bedroom floor for over an hour watching highlights of one man. Damn this was too good to stop. Well done.
No cap 💪🏾🏀
I hope your back starts feeling better
Times 2....
.
I know, right? I'm doing the same thing! Glad I found it.
This video is my life on film. Growing up in Philadelphia at EXACTLY this time, I was in 9th grade when we got Doctor J from the Nets. No words can describe the disbelief and JOY that HE was coming to PHILLY to play for the Sixers. All my roots as a complete "basketball lunatic" started with Julius Winfield Erving II arriving in town to join the Sixers. We bought tickets in the rafters of ths Spectrum and swooned while Doc "operated". For the entirety of his career in Philadelphia, we swelled with pride because WE had Doc.
Honestly I thought Micheal Jordan is the icon but after watching this I realized Julius "Dr J" Erving" is THE ICON
That's right, cause there was Michael Jordan before Jordan, meaning Julius Erving, the doctor
My father worked for the NETS in the front office, and this man NEVER left until EVERY autograph was signed, and that all of his sneakers and socks of that day were given away. I personally still have 8 pairs of game used sneakers, but have no idea from what games. But I'll give you a GREAT story about THE DOC, this man would drive a Rolls Royce, and he would start his car and warm it up. But, while he did that, he signed EVERY single autograph and I can tell you this, one time it was 22 BELOW and about 30 kids were waiting for him. He didn't even have a coat on and he still signed every signature until every kid was happy. THIS WAS NIGHTLY, and THIS, is who DR. J TRULY IS... THAT'S WHY HE IS CLASS, AND THE ONLY PERSON CLOSE TO HIM WAS WALTER PAYTON....BUT JULIUS ERVING IS STILL THE KING.
@M ok?
@M still won’t be huge in the US by then
@M soccer is for pussies
@M Is this a video about soccer? Or what game is the worlds' most popular sport? NO so why even bring it up? Can't tell if you're being a douche or just a troll!!!
Well said my friend, well said.
I remember my father doing Dr J moves on the court. I even remember seeing my Dad being glued to the tv during basketball season; and watching The Doctor do his thing.
This is my sixth time watching this within the past year and I still love watching it!!🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌
Dr. J = GOAT. He changed basketball forever. He came along and made basketball exciting to watch. Suddenly games were on prime time because everybody wanted to see Dr. J..
Julius Erving is and always has been class personified! He's not an athlete he's an artist!!! His game inspired kids like me to be better than what we were, because we all knew there was only gonna be one DR J!
Hats off to the man who saved professional basketball. A great athlete , the ambassador of basketball, and a real gentleman. May health and happiness follow him for the rest of his life.
Dr J. was great but Larry Bird and Magic Johnson saved the NBA
@@williamsmith920 it's pro basketball not just the nba, and dr. j paved the way for the two of them, it takes dozens of big names to save the NBA, larry and magic were just the last names we remember when it took flight, but the doctor was the pilot who took over the runway and first made it airborne. #topoftheclassisdrj
@@williamsmith920 Who was the following mirror image to Dr. J? MJ! So, while Larry and Magic actually played with him (jealous!) it was actually Jordan who people looked up to because he was the Dr J that nobody ever saw. Did everything the Dr did; up and under the rim shots, even the foul line dunk! His idol... Ironically, MJ had a son who also died in a car accident and had a brother who got sick and died. Though it never took him 7 seasons to win a championship, it did take him a few years to do so. So there was no saving the NBA the Dr. paved the way!!
@@georgetrevortan446 Very well said!
@@williamsmith920 ...Doc revitalized the NBA, PERIOD!!!
Wow. How can this man not ever come up in the GOAT discussions. He changed the game of basketball to what it is today. What a great documentary. Sadly I rmember the time when he lost his son living here in Orlando. We love ya Doc.
I can’t believe it Either, considering all those greats saw him as a god
He comes up in MY discussions.
That 83 team should be considered one of the greatest of all time, too. Like Moses said "Fo, fo, fo." Even though they did lose one to a great Bucks team.
Dr J was like a real life superhero when I was a kid...I mean everybody wanted to be Dr. J!
If you're a 70's kid like me, you know what to say!!👊🏾🏀🏀
@@elwin38 Dr. Chapstick to me.
@@daBEAGLE1017 😁✌🏾
We used to go watch the Dr when he was in college and you could tell even then that he was destined for greatness.
I’m 59 years old from East St Louis and Chicago. Doctor J was and still is my favorite basketball player of all time. No one had seen anything like him on a basketball ball court. He started the isolation game. They use to take 4 guys to the other side of the court and you had to follow your player to the other side. He would then take his man to the hoop and dunk on him. If the Center rotated to protect the rim he would dunk on him to. He could not be stopped going to the rim, he started hang time, floating, and gliding. I was 16 and played basketball in high school. I spent hours on the court learning how to reverse layup , gliding, hanging one hand finger rolls. Later on I worked as a cook at the Rivera Hotel and he use to bring his family and kids there every year from 1977 to 1983 during our Hall of fame golf tournaments. I have pictures with him, I cut his prime ribs, fed his wife and kids. I shook his hands, and his fingers could go to the middle of my forearm. He was always nice and classy with everyone. DR. J and Ali will always be my sports heroes.
Yeah he had the 3 things which made his game incredible were his vertical jump, his hang time, and his huge hands. I wish I was old enough to see him play in game... I was lucky enough to see Jordan play but not Dr. J ... the reason we have the goat Jordan ... i’m sure Jordan would not be the same player he became without Dr. J
Also what do u mean his middle finger could go to the middle of your forearm? From the bottom of your hand? If it is then that’s really not that impressive but I know that he had gigantic hand so I’m guessing that it’s from the top of your hand
Also what do u mean his middle finger could go to the middle of your forearm? From the bottom of your hand? If it is then that’s really not that impressive but I know that he had gigantic hands so I’m guessing that it’s from the top of your hand
RoyD RaGe I met him numerous times when I was a cook at the Rivera hotel Las Vegas. He used to bring the wife and kids ever year after the seasons was over. I shook his hand when I was 17. His finger tips went up to my forearms. You are correct just like DR J got his game from Elgin Baylor, Jordan got his game from DR J and made it better.
RoyD RaGe when you shake hands you can Normally grasp someones hand with yours. I can Palm a basketball 🏀. His fingers went to the middle of my forearms. That’s not even close to normal, I met Kawi when he played for the Spurs at a San Antonio game. Did not shake his hand but I was close enough to see him hold the basketball 🏀 with one hand. Dr J hands were larger than his, and Kawi hands are huge.
The doctor was and still the most spectacular player of all time...
And he was that good in college too
It has been said, "You start your team with MJ but you start your league with Dr. J".
Mj started an empire. But I love that quote
@@OpinionatedPeach ...Jordan didn't start an empire.
@@OpinionatedPeach without julius it wouldn't have been possible, from the doc to magic and bird to MJ to kobe
@@OpinionatedPeach Mj is a corporate creation. When Champions correlate to shoe sales, shit is bogus.
@@bassheadchilled1344 speak
I have loved sports for over 50 yes. Julius Erving was and is my favorite basketball player/person my whole life. I consider it an honor and a blessing to have been around from the beginning of his career until he retired. And I have to mention that I begged my father for yes to take me see him play. Finally on Dr J's birthday we went. He scored 56pts. Incredible.
wow must have been amazing
Isaiah and Magic tell these great stories with a smile and enthusiasm. Like two old men laughing it up talking about the old days.
It gives me gay vibes tbh
@@OpinionatedPeach how so?
Isiah ***
Magic and Isiah could be talking about killing mentally challenge people and they would have a smile on their faces.
Hey i played for this org inHempstead Julius is like an uncle he loved my dad many of us played for Don Ryan = ken chenault mike malone Denver hc mybro steve Frm Knicks prez Tu Holloway Rob moore etc etc great place
How Can anyone watch this and not get Goosebumps!!! I absolutely love watching these documentaries. It's like traveling back through time
When Dr. J left the game, I lost my interest in basketball. Hell it was all good till then...Heck I still wear converses....Happy to say I met him and still feel the same as I did them....Thank you Mr DOC J FOR THAT YOU GAVE TO ALL OF US..........JRC
joirjoja1 You said I have a converse collection of shoes and shirts. I have Dr j shirts., shorts, jackets, you name it.
Larry bird calls Mj God
@@alexandermonday3017ppl j.g ewwww
His leaping ability, those long arms and huge hands, the full extension of his arm above his head with his hand gripping the ball like it was an egg, then the snapping down of the dunk at full force made it unstoppable. He was style, magic, creativity, power and athletic brilliance in one package. Off the court, a man of intelligence, articulate in his speaking ability, and all class.
I'm 54 years old and a former division 1 player back in the day. I know we've had the Bird/Magic era, the MJ, Kobe and now Lebron era, but I can't explain in words how amazing and special it was to finally see Dr. J during the ABA merger. He was doing things we had never seen before, especially in the air. He revitalized the interest in the league from 76 thru 81. Everyone wanted to be Dr. J. He changed the game.
the dr.j i remeber needed 2 other players to jump one bird
LeBron era is era of long berd in players mouth. This is not sports image. I scared grandsan with picture of le bron.🤪
I am 62 when I was growing up I think of three players that started doing things that hadn't been done before, Earl the pearl Monroe, pistol Pete maravitch and the most impressive Dr j ! Dr j did some of the great dunks before Jordan !
So you never made it.
@@marcusaurelius652 Had two NBA tryouts and played in Europe for 10 years. It was a great experience.
Dr. J, true legend from a 1991 graduate of the same Roosevelt High School....Rough Riders!!! I still remember playing in that gym. -1 Wagner Avenue, Roosevelt NY, always in my heart. - 7:08
Official #VeltTime #Exit21 #Exit21Tribe Roosevelt, New York 11575 Square Mile Gang 💯💯🙏🏿
@@TaleHatez_Management no doubt Exit 21 my home town 1 McClellan Pl back in the day.
@@dee65cee53 I Used To Live On Frederick Ave Off Of B.T Babylon Tpke, Around Corner from STOP N GO 💯💯💪🏿💪🏿
@@TaleHatez_Management I had a lot good times on Babylon Tpke playing ball at Centennial Park
I started to cry when he talked about his brother..man this was a good documentary
Yes this was a great documentary. Very touching when Dr. J mentioned the last words his heard his bro tell him in the hospital. Had me teary-eyed
Me too
Cried 2 times during this great documentary.
Dr j got nothing to do with race he is the greatest player period!
Me too,couldnt stop till the end
The greatest thing about Mr. Erving is how humble he is. He's just the person he is and that's all he is to himself regardless of who or what he is to anyone and everyone else.
The best of all time. Class. Dignity. Legend.
Such an amazing story. Dr J is an amazing man.
He inspired me so much when I was 12.
Im 55 now💔🙏😇😇
He was a phenomena in the 1970s with the street ball dunking moves that people went nuts to see him.
This man is inspiring in a way that is even more rare today than it was back then. A professional with humble beginnings who's dignity, class and innate sense of respect was on the level of a revered king. I wish figures like him were the norm in our society today.
3333333 we rhythm##
Beautifully Said ! Thats why there's only one Dr.J. Thee King of Basketball ! I'm a Celtic fan...but you have to be realistic and recognize Greatness, it's not hard to see. Julius Erving...big heart.. A LEGEND for the rest of time..they talk about him in mars , on the moons of Jupiter. And beyond....
A man to THAT my BROTHER$
He is one of the greatest of all time but more importantly he is a class act
"The Legend is incredible, the real story is even Better "
I couldn't say it any better than that about the Man Dr J 🙌
Yes Dan...yes...
Truly the greatest! The 80s had magic and Larry, the 90s had Jordan, the 2000s had kobe, and we have LeBron now. In the 70s though you have to put the doctor above everyone else!
What about Spud Webb?
Kareem?
Don’t forget Kareem
You know Da Wae? No way Dr j made the NBA relevant again. Kareem is a legend but he's not the doc
@@caseywinters8650 Yeah but Doc was in the ABA with the Nets, Kareem was in the NBA with the Bucks and Lakers. Although Doc is way way cooler
Awesome that Chuck D narrated the story of his home town hero. Chuck D is a hero to so many people after him. Has to feel good.
A real classy and great man of basketball
I’m 53 and Dr. J is simply one of my favorite humans. Ever. He means so much to so many. We would do well to heed his example. I know I sure have a lot to learn from this incredible man. (I was fortunate enough to briefly thank him when I played drums for an NBA off season event in Orlando which he attended. He was as gracious and kind as you would expect. The man has an aura about him that is impossible to properly convey. Simply class personified.)!Thank you Julius Erving. God Bless you and your sweet boy.
I'm 70 and have seen his journey since the inception . Julius Irving is the personification greatness. Nice thoughts you had .
I GREW UP WITH JULIAS PLAYED FOR SAINT JOSEPHS AND VALLEY STREAM AND WE WOULD PLAY ROOSEVELT AND HEMPSTEAD, THEY WERE GOOD, MET WENDALL AT MODELLS FROM THE NETS BEFORE THE PLANE CRASH THAT KILLED WENDALL LADNER,,, I LOVE THIS VIDEO THANK YOU DR J AND THANKS FOR POSTING THIS WONDERFULL HISTORY OF LONG ISLAND , NETS ABA,
Great Documentary. I always loved Chuck D's voice. I'm 53 and remember watching Dr. J play. Being such a tomboy basketball was my favorite sport. I wasn't a 76ers fan because I was a home team fan. (The Lakers) But a fan of Dr. J. I always wanted to watch him and root for his team unless they played against our team. I watched that 82-83 Championship game series that was high lighted, man. The 76ers came in and swept and each game I still had hope. I remember my brothers saying it's over it's over. I cried like a baby, Literally. He was that player you hated because he was that good but loved because he was that good. And yes class, style, great sportsmanship, and gentlemen. Thank you Julius Erving.
Bill Walton is right - Dr. J is universally loved. Magic Johnson was spot on - greatness meets class.
I met the Dr. in Houston before the game outside in 1980. He had the coolest walk. Gliding. His hands are huge.
Watching him and Gervin play was spectacular. The doctor was in session evaluating the frozen one. The “iceman” George Gervin and The doctor are forever legends.
Loved this ....I cried, I smiled and I cheered.........thanks for the memories.....I grew up following the Doctor
My favorite athlete of all time. The Ali of basketball. I met him once after a preseason basketball game in Birmingham Al where he conversated and signed autographs for a mob of people over an hour until everyone was gone. It was just him me and my buddy. I just stood there looking at him like OMG.
I remember I was 8 yrs old when my Dad took me to see The Doctor when he played for the Nets. It's the only professional basketball game I've ever seen and I had no idea why my Dad took me. So I asked him. He told me that he wanted me to be able to see the best player that ever played the game of basketball.
Now he's taken me to plenty of NFL games. Mainly Baltimore Colts and NY Giants but that ABA game just felt different.
Thank you Dad for taking me and thank you Dr J for making it so memorable.
Amazing
No doubt he was the greatest Player Ever in the world period Understand
Here come the doctor.j
Doctor J changed the Game forever , with dignity and class . One of my heroes
Man plans, and God laughs. You're a good man, Julius Erving.
So fuck your god
Indeed
He was SO far ahead of his time.
Love this
This is a good line!!
Without a doubt the greatest who ever played the game. He could do more in the air then people could do on the ground. He changed the entire game of basketball.
I've met him as he raised money for an inner city school in kc years ago. ..I told him I desired to help kids in inner city too...He looked right thru me down to the lamp of my heart, pulled out his business card, said call me, and showed me his heart was even greater than his dunks..God bless this man even now more than he has ever dreamed or hoped or ever asked...
This giant of a man in so many ways, and all the years later feeling the deep emotions of the loss of his brother. Very moving.
Never knew the extent of his greatness until today!!! You sir have just won a knew fan
Tyson Moana he wasn’t the franchise player he was the league...the goat !!!
New*
There were a lot of great basketball players before the doc came along, but no one had ever done the things he did.
He was larger than life. And just so cool about it.
“When greatness meets class”
I had the pleasure and blessing to watch Doc play for Philly. It’s hard to put in words what he meant to this city.
Rock the cradle= greatest dunk of all time.
As long as you don't mind 3 steps of traveling.
he didnt travel, get your eyes checked!
He didn't travel.
David Dyer It‘s no different than what is allowed today.
Easily
Dr J has lived a public life in the right way. He is pure class. I was fortunate to see him play decades ago while he was at UMass. I lived in Maine and saw him play there. I think he went 14 for 14 , or something like that. He couldn't dunk because of the NCAA rule at the time, so he simply jumped over everyone and finger-rolled, or floated, or banked the ball in time after time. From then on I was a huge fan of his style and his character, even when the Sixers bullied my Celtics. Wonderful memories of his game and career!
Being a long-time Jordan fan I am also an admirer of Dr J, he was and still is a class-act and an all-around gentleman in and out of the courts. He deserved the championship.
Great documentary.. Made my laugh.. made me cry.. made me shout loud for a great great player and human..
cried a few times during this.. amazing doco
No doubt about it....this gentleman is a legend. Loved watching him play
Great ending.. I love the way that was shot.. (What you already know rarely needs to be seen..) The Doc was an EXAMPLE of how to be a man's man, and played the game with tenacity. I don't think he was the greatest player I've ever seen, but he might be the best HUMAN BEING that ever laced 'em up.
A living legend.
God bless his family.
I’m positive his mom, had a big influence on him.
When you are put on this earth to witness a greatness in motion consider yourself blessed Thank God for The Dr.!!!
This document re-confirms what I had forgotten over the years. He is my vote for GOAT.
My most significant sports idol growing up! He was eloquent, articulate & cerebral in a manner that most athletes - let alone a black athlete - had never been viewed or perceived. Julius "Dr. J" Erving is one of the MOST significant figures in American Sports history. I can state without hesitation that this man inspired me to personally achieve at a higher level & present myself with class at "every" turn! Magic says its best Julies is God's creation of "greatness & class!"
So was mine !! He is a living Legend and Mr Cool 😎
Everything he did was with absolute class.
"When greatness MEETS class." he said.
I was able to fly like the Dr. I'm beginning to realize how special that was.
I grew up in the 80s and 90s....mj was my idol.
I lived in rural Nova Scotia and never picked up a basketball until I was 12.
I was a late bloomer when it comes to dunking. Around my 17th birthday.
I trained hard as an athlete. I drove a bike to work for 2 years which I believe was the exercise that was most responsible for my leaping ability.
Eventually I realized that it was Julius Erving who inspired MJ.
The Dr's impact is far reaching.
I'm in my 20's
Life long Laker
This brings me chills
I remember my uncle telling me all the stories about the greats and this was by far his favorite!
#Respect
#DrJ
Magic Johnson was 100% correct when he said Dr. J could do things in todays game that guys cannot do.
Some guy's you just want to root for in life and Dr J was one of them. I remember that Converse commercial from the 70's. I'm 48 and haven't seen that since 77' or whenever it came out but I still new the words before they said them. Weird what packs itself deep in your brain.
cowboysfan782008 I remember the Dr. Pepper commercial when he was with the Nets
It was incredible to see the young DR J about 50 years ago when he first started playing with the Virginia Squares. His high energy, magnetic personality, & skills on the court were something Virginia had never seen.
I was born in 1976, and had never seen him play, but even I knew that he was the best player. Back in the days of my first memories of basketball, there were the Harlem Globetrotters and there was Dr. J.
Dr J...what a class...truly...your loved ones are in heaven...you have the prayers of billions of people...hats off to you sir..
Wow how cool I didn’t know Doctor J let a young Magic Johnson stay with him for a week to understand what it’s like to be an NBA player
Can’t say enough about this man. Saw him in the ABA. Class act. Rucker legend. Cover of Sport magazine “Can Dr. J Save the ABA?”
When Doc lost his brother, I definitely knew how he felt, because I also lost my brother, in an automobile accident. He was only eighteen years old. It was a very difficult time.
I knew how Doctor J felt as well because I lost my brother at age 19 in a car accident and I was 17. The closeness and feeling of love never diminishes. Yes Doctor was and is GREATNESS!!!
This is one of the greatest sports documentaries ever made. Dr. J. A real life super hero
I wrote a paper on Julius Erving in elementary school. He is one of my favorite players going back to the 70s.
I'm 57 n DR .J.u will always will be my # 1 n I think a hole lot of millions n millions of people would agree luv u man u are the BEST ever in the universe, respect always I'm wes
I'm so happy I got to see the Doctor operate on the court. He was an inspiration to all the young boy coming up in the that era.
I grew up a few miles away from Erving. I saw many Nets games at the Nassau Coliseum. I saw him at a clinic at Nassau Community College. Erving was a clinic. He was virtually unknown in high school. He was a great player an an inspiration to all. He is ours....from our neighborhood. He's the greatest.
The Doctor...The Original. Classiest and Coolest Basketball Player Ever.
He’s in the Top 5 of your Top 5’s.
Legendary 💯
I heard of Dr. J but thought the stories were exaggerated. Then the NBA players and the ABA players arranged an All-Star game between the two rival leagues. Dr. J came down the court, left his feet at the TOP OF THE KEY, and came down slamming the ball, and it was obvious that he could have dived head first through the basket. I was standing on my feet cheering for a guy I'd never seen before. It was awesome. So great that he became a Sixer. I did a little work for the Sixers and went to one of their practices at Weidner College during the playoffs to meet some Sixer execs. I brought my eight year old son along. Practice over, all the Sixers walked off the court. But Dr J walked all the way over to the other side of the gym where we were standing and patted my son on the head. I think he still calls it the greatest moment in his life.
TOP OF THE KEY is exactly what I also witnessed a number of times. The man was incredible. The 76ers made the pre-game shoot-around something to look froward to, as they would include a dunk-around. The greatest plays (shots) are those made during a game, and he did not disappoint the crowd before or during the game.
dude you didn't see him slam from top of the key gtfoh. that's too easy to say
@@Johnjohn-dt6hw It's easier for you to say I'm a liar. troll
This is the best documentary on The Doctor, You will ever see.Period!
Years ago while still in the Military had the opportunity to play against Dave Thompson, Artis Gilmore and Daryl Walker. Though they were well past their prime it was a most exciting experience. I watched Dr J most of his career. True Legend and Ultimate Ambassador of the game. Those that followed in his path owe so much respect and for the most part have lived up to the hype.
I grew up watching the Doc; nothing but class personified. I watched many stars retire, Jordan, and Jeter. But when Doc retired, I cried. Nothing but class.
He might not be considered the ' greatest ' , but in my opinion he was THEE most influential and most entertaining. As a kid growing up in the 70's and start to play basketball ( loved it since day one ) and played in school organized team league too. I went from emulating Kareem's skyhook to Dr J's moves, which was the minute when I first ever saw the doctor played on tv. I was totally glued to the television. Even to this day, there is no one else I'd rather play like than the ' doctor '. Other kids were starting to call me ' mini-Dr J '. lol. Btw, after watching the doctor played for the first time, Kareem moved to the 2nd spot as my favorite player. That was how ' influential ' and ' entertaining ' he was to me then, and now..
My favorite player ever. So glad I was able to see him play! Omg, I literally wanted to wear my socks like he did
Dr J was beautiful. The man was THE best I ever------EVER-----saw on a B. Ball court. ------------WolfSky9
Any aspiring basketball player, needs to know about Doctor J. He was an innovator way before there were ridiculous multi-million dollar contracts. He played for the love of the game. He's also a first class humble human being.
Show this documentary to any kid who wants to play sports. They'll learn a lot more than just about sports but also how to carry themselves.
Thank you for posting this video.
He is the greatest this is the best documentary
Swish Davis not the greatest but one of the greatest story's
Pistol Pete The greatest Pistol Pete
Definitely not the greatest, sorry.
Jordan is easily better. Dr. J was the first who played the way he did, coming along at a time when that kind of play was becoming accepted.
Growing up in Philly in the 70's and 80's every kid would go to the playground and try and emulate Dr.J. I am fortunate to have gotten to see him play in person on numerous ocassions and each time I left feeling that I just witnessed something special in my lifetime. Dr.J IMO is a top 5 sports personality that transcended sports much like Muhammed Ali, Arthur Ashe, Jesse Owens and Michael Jordan. Thanks for posting the documentary!
Well said
Love Dr. J. Seems like such a nice man. Legendary player.
the way he said he used the spirit of his brother as a tool to have an advantage on the court, wow gave me chills
better man,father, brother,and just class!!!! We need another Dr J
I’m 51 and I still get childlike when I watch and hear the story’s of the Doc. Majestic
Growing up on Long Island, my [and my brother's] first professional basketball game was watching Dr. J in the Island Garden Arena. It was a very eventful game. I recognized Dave DeBusschere [who was trying to blend in as a regular fan], got his autograph, and then everybody else recognized him and he was forced to eventually leave. Dave DeBusschere gave me a kidding-around dirty look and then a smile. I thought that was a pretty good day at that point. Obviously watching the Doc was just amazing, but the ending of the game made it even better. Now I'm not sure if the Doc scored the winning basket at the end or he scored after stealing the ball to put an end to the other team's attempt to tie or go ahead. But what made the steal that much more amazing was what the Doc did and the timing. He stole the ball and raced down the court w/like 6 seconds or so. Everybody says he first did his foul line dunk at a later All Star game, but the Doc raced down the court and jumped from the foul line and dunked it right at the buzzer. From that point forward and every time I drove to the hoop, I tried to emulate his moves. On certain days w/a ball w/a good grip, I was able to palm and this enabled me to sort of look like the Doc. What a great feeling. Thanks Dr. J for the memories and more.
Nassau county ❤️
@@Justice4some yes, Nassau County indeed.
It's so hard to explain to people who didn't experience it, just how big of a deal Dr. J really was.
I was in the Dr. J era and he was the MAN!! I LOVE WATCHING HIS STORY!! I HAVE GREAT COMPASSION FOR THE LOSS OF HIS BELOVED BROTHER AND HIS BELOVED SON😢 EVERYTIME I LOOK AT THIS I GET TEARY😢 BECAUSE OF HIS LOSSES. IT BROKE THAT MY HEART WHEN HE AND HIS WIFE BROKE UP.😢DR. J, MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, MUCH LOVE, TERESA
I had the pleasure of meeting The Doctor while having a drink at a fancy hotel in the country of Argentina of all places. He was there on vacation and my buddy and I didn’t want to bother him.
Finally, one of our girlfriends got tired of us staring and talking about him and decided she’d had enough. She got up, walked over to him and said “Excuse me my friends would love to meet you but they don’t want to bother you. Something about a Celtics game.” He laughed and invited us to come say hello. We shook hands, chatted a bit and of course got a photo together. He was the nicest gentleman, very down to earth. I will always remember that moment, totally surreal.
I sure that putting your hand into Dr. J's massive hand was surreal. Great comment.
gut wrenching when he talks about seeing his brother for the last tme
I had to stop it then fast forward past it!
I had tears
I did not know anything about Dr. J aside from what other basketball stars mentioned about him over the years until I watched this.... All I can say is you are inspirational Sir from one imperfect person to another!!!
one of the best documentaries ever. The Doctor just shows you how society has deteriorated since Julius Irvings day with social media conglomerates dictating consciousness.
I truly want to thank all those involved who put this together, about one of the greatest players will play the game and change the game. Julius Winfield Irving, AKA Dr j will always be remembered, respected and admired for his uniqueness and greatness on and off the court. Dr j if you ever read this you have nothing but blessings coming from here for you and your family. THANK YOU FOR AN AD MARBLE ADVENTURE AND JOURNEY AS I WAS FORTUNATE TO SEE MOST 🙏👍😇
Nobody has ever dunked on people in games like Dr. J. Not even Michael Jordan could. MJ got his dunks on centers by catching them slightly a step behind or by getting to the rim before they could set themselves up to block his shot, but Dr. J dunked on them no matter what. The team with him, Moses, Bobby Jones, Andrew Toney, and Mauirice Cheeks was one of the greatest teams ever. Andrew Toney was a better shooter than anyone today: 3's, mid-range, and at the rim.
Pens Suck u drunk with the greatest shooter shit
Pens Suck you're right dude! Doc was just something bout this man....man could he get off!!!!
Pens Suck Dominique
Kid video
Scott Grudziadz that’s cap bro 🤷🏽♂️😂
One of the best documentaries I've ever seen. Bird and Magic might have saved the nba, but the Doctor kept it floating long enough for them to let it shine.
1983 Philadelphia 76ers, the pinnacle of a legend. Thank you Doctor J, Magic, and Larry Legend for making me love basketball as a young kid. I mean it, thank you!!!!