What a brilliant documentary. I can honestly say that it is one that brought tears to my eyes but not those of sadness. The man has suffered personal loss that can just consume one’s being. He somehow found the strength to move on and give memories and joy to the fans that were fortunate enough to see him play. What a man. A truly class act Dr Julius Erving🙏🏼
I had the pleasure of meeting him once. I was a chef at a restaurant in Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta; and he came into our spot to eat. Pure CLASS!!!
Cool !!!!! I'm seeing this docu for the first time. Love It. I grew up hearing the Name Dr. J. At approx. 17:30 of this docu I heard the words sold to for x amount of money and it stop me dead in ny tracks. Sound like this an extension of slavery. Buying and selling the best Buck Niggah for profit
What an awesome story. Never knew he suffered such heart-ache. Dr. J was always modest, professional, and a role model. Truly a great player, but more importantly...a great person.
By far the most influential, emotional, classy, humbling documentary I’ve seen. The man who literally paved the road for the NBA. Bow down to the DOC!!!
This was one of the greatest sports documentaries I ever seen. I had a lump in my throat watching it. The J was pure class, something that seems to be lacking in professional sports today.
Julius Erving is and will always be a class act. He is the one many professional players should emulate. He was professional on and off the court. Truly a class act.
@Tammy T You're a hater. Looking to bring people down to your level. Ask Bird what he thinks of Dr J and vice versa. You need a new heart. Only Jesus can help you and I pray you'll humble yourself and receive His Light instead of your darkness.
Damn this was an amazing documentary, brought tears to my eye. This man did alot for the black community and to be honest it looked like he helped bring the whole nation together.
Beautiful to see Magic's commentary about how Doc invited him to his house showing him what NBA life would be like. In addition, Magic being an awed fan not a competitor on Doctor's historic move on Lakers. Damn, Magic is so real and pure in his view on Doc.
im glad my childhood was in the 70's. We had the greatest stars in all sports to be our heros. Aaron and Banks in baseball, Payton in football, Ali in boxing, and of course, the great Dr J in basketball. Thanks Doc for changing the way basketball was seen and played.
This documentary is so well done. Every time I start watching it, I can't stop. This is the third time I have seen it and it feels like the first time again....but better.
For me the greatest of all times when you combine his natural talent, persona, class and values. Came to the USA in 1978. He was the first player I came to love watching on the court. I was living in Washington DC where the Washington Bullets played, but loved the Philadelphia 76’ers because of him. Suffered the many years when he did not win the NBA World Championship and cried like a little kid when he finally did in 1983. The first time I cried as an adult. This documentary brought it all home for me. What a unique and special person DJ is and will always be.
As a teenager I remember getting so excited to see the Doctor play. 40+ years later, I realize more the greatness he is. So composed, so together, an inspiration for everyone
I moved to the States in 1980 knowing nothing about basketball. The first time I watched Doc play I was hooked. To this day he remains my favourite player - ever.
A gentle giant! How many times have we heard that saying? Respect,Class,Passion humanity and talent out of this world. Always the best. Dr.J long live and prosper.
I remember seeing Dr.J at the Ruckers in 1972 I was 17 at the time I shook hands with him after a game wow! His hands was big. There were about 20 kids waiting 4 him he took the time 2 sign his autograph 4 all of us 2 me that made an impact on me even now at 62 that time is still special 4 me
The Dr. was my all time hero! I ate, slept, and dreamt about becoming him as a kid! Majic said it best, what a supreme example of class mixed with God given talent! Thank you Dr. J for what you modled and continue to model for me!
Brings back memories! My old stomping grounds...Saw Julius play from high school to 76ers. My all-time favorite player ever! The only reason colleges slept on Julius is because they never saw him play at Roosevelt, Kennedy, Lakeview, and Centennial Parks...lol
This Was Amazin...Im a 50 yr old guy...Cryin n shit from all these memories...damn Doc...I hate u went thru sooo much pain brah...but I soooo appreciate n respect your path...Gid Bless you and Your Family Man...To your Brother n Son Corey....TRUST U MADE EM PROUD MAN...MAY THEY REST IN HEAVEN!!!!
Had the pleasure of watching him crush spirits on my Virginia Squires in the early 70’s. Jumping out of the gym on a nightly basis! Amazing player, better man, a class act!
He was a great player without a doubt. After watching this, I think his biggest imprint was the gentleman and class act he always was. If I’m half the man he was, I’ll call it a good life.
His legacy is unquestioned , but call him a “gentleman and class act“ is a bit of a stretch. Are you not aware of the daughter he refused to acknowledge for most of her adult life? Edit: when I initially wrote this comment, I hadn’t even realized that it was the product of an extra marital affair. On top of that, he did it twice! So, he’s serial adulterer who fathered two children with separate mistresses. Hardly what I would call a class act!
OK, if you want to cheat on your wife with multiple women and have two children outside of that marriage and then not even be in the life of them as well. OK, if you’re going to be only half as good as that lol.
Young child says: "I'm tired... They [the angels] need to come get me"... How sad and yet this child knew he was going and was ready to go to heaven; accompanied by angels... So sad; yet so beautiful Peace w/ a smile
Beautiful, but heart 💔breakingly sad at the same time. Followed Dr. Jay and big '76 fan in 80's, he was exciting to watch, a living basketball Legend G.O.A.T. even then it just seems like he carried a sadness... lost his son in 2000, shortly after parted ways with his wife of many years, makes you wonder😌As a star ABA and NBA superstar player was great family in spotlight news media, presented himself always as humble and a classy pro basketball athlete💙✨💜
I am a 76ers fan from 800 mi away because of Doc. Magic said it best: the embodiment of greatness and class! About to dunk still at age 60+. Amazing! Still my favorite NBA player of all time.
I watched the Last Dance and there is one thing Dr Julius had on and off the court from the other players in the league as well as his teammates and that is RESPECT. I loved the rocking' chair at his final game which said so much how the other players saw him.
What a guy! Growing up outside Philly in NJ, I remember him so well and I have never been a sports person but who didn't know him? He was a legend, a hero, a Black Man to be admired on so many levels. Still, he carries that. Watching this special brought me such joy, lifting my spirits at a moment when it was sorely needed. Greatness personified!
One of my favorite documentaries. Didnt expect to get so emotional. I heard about him but I never watched his stories. Very happy I did. Will never be another Doctor J👨⚕️🏀
I saw this when it first came out. I'm crying again 😭. I have only cried three times in the last 25 years. My father's death and the two times I watched this documentary.
Me too, I've heard but never paid attention till now. Much love and respect Dr J Julius Irving. An epic shot caught on this documentary at the end when he made that last dunk shot and still got it at his age now 😲 WOWSERS 👏👏👏👏🙌 GOD BLESS YOU MR IRVING SIR❤️
This is by far the Greatest sports Doc I have ever seen in my life.. I have never felt so many emotions watching something as I did this.. Thank you for allowing us to learn more about this man . He truly is a legend
I'm from UK moved to Cali and I watched the whole thing..it was epic...The story encapsulates the American dream it's perfect and what truly makes America great.
I respect him so much, he is an honorable man, a man of substance and character. Too often that's hard to find today, I hope more young men and boys see this story and want to emulate this man....his light shines so others can follow. May God continue to bless him and protect him and his family.
So thankful that this showed up on my RUclips feed! Wow! Excellent documentary about a man who decided to live to his fullest potential! Greatness indeed!!! Bravo to everyone involved in creating this piece... Including God who formed this Greatness in his mother's womb!
I had partial season ticked to the sixers during the Doctor J era. And also, play off tickets to the series the sixers went down to Walton and the Trail Blazers in the playoffs. Doctor J is a class act and fine human being. One day fishing by run arount the River drive and finishing at the front of the Art Museus I saw 4 of Philadelphia's top pro atletes being photographed because all the teams had great seasons. As I was not shy, I went over to the small group and asked for autographs and I did even have a pencil or pen with me. Doc told me to walk over to car with him and asked me to get in out of the weathe because is was a cold raw and wet day. He is, and always has been, one hell of a man. Thanks Doc.
Easily one of the greatest and most uplifting sports documentaries I have ever watched. If there was a "Mt. Rushmore" honoring the greatest American athletes, Dr. J's face would be carved into it.
I’m a 46 year-old man, and less than 3 minutes in, I’m bawling when he starts talking about his sickly little brother, and how that fragile state of his brother’s health only made him even more protective. He loses his dad as a young boy...loses his brother while he was in college, and rather than shut down, he instead found that determination and commitment that would make him one of NBA’s Top 50 players of all-time. One of the classiest men I have ever seen portrayed.
yes true, but you know there were some other "unknowns" at the Rucker who helped turn him into the Badass he was. jus saying,It wasn't just the man but the culture that surrounded the man that brought out his potential. bucket list: I need to go see Rucker park one day.
Over so many yrs Mr. Erving can still tear up about his brother. After all the stuff he has been through. That (to me) shows a man with exponential growth. Complete respect for this man
As a kid I remember Dr.J and having the feeling ,that the world was empty once Dr.J left the NBA...I even cried but just having the opportunity to watch him play was enough.
@@dawnpratt846 It was fitting that his last game was in Milwaukee. Standing ovation from the organization/fans who drafted him with the 12th pick in 1971 NBA draft. It may have been crazy pairing him with Jabbar and the BIG O. Wonderful blessed and UNIQUE basketball PHENOMENON.
i still remember the time Dr. J was literally out of bounds (in the air) and reached underneath the backboard and made the shot. Bad-ass-hell !!! always great!!!
Man watching Mike Piazza get so emotional and giddy about Dr. J. inspiring him, I got a bit misty eyed! Listening to the narrations and the music, highlights, testimonies, and sorrowful moments has me wanting to see a movie of Julius Erving’s life. Excellent documentary...class personified.
I grew up idolizing Dr. J! While going to school in Lincoln Nebraska, my brother got tickets in 1983 to a Kansas City Kings vs. Sixer's game. The only thing I remember was watching the greatest, coolest, and classiest player to ever play the game! The players who followed were some great players, but it was never as awe-inspiring, or electric before Julius Erving or since!
dr. j revolutionized basketball....he was what the current nba needs to adopt....class, style, good sportsmanshp, along with amazing moves and a fairness thats missing in the game now....he should be the commissioner of the nba...and losing a son is something i can identify with...my son was overmedicated and died of a heart attack at 16...and like dr.j, i overcame the loss and continue to be a man my son would be proud of...ALL of the millionaires in the nba should give homage to the GREATEST OF ALL TIME...JULIUS DR. J ERVING
He was classy and a good sport...But he did fire on Larry Bird when his team mates were holding Bird... Bird talked a lot of shit ....and backed it up too!
I was a Nets fan as a kid, and was lucky enough to witness the ABA via local telecasts. Julius was incredible beyond words! I was crushed when the Nets sold him to Philadelphia. Unfortunately, people never saw Erving at his very very best .....not because he wasn't as great, but because the Sixers were chock full of stars that were ball hogs. Even in 1983, as great as he still was, he wasn't the same Erving that he was when he was younger.
Wow that was special. Dr . J was my first favorite professional athlete. I lived in Portland when the Blazers beat them in the NBA finals. Everyone expected you to root for the Blazers, but I secretly wanted Philadelphia to win because of Dr. J! 👍🏽
I watched Mr. Erving in the 70's with the Squires and the Nets of the ABA. I then followed him when he was with the 76er's. I remember him dunking over Bill Walton. Walton is quoted as saying the Doctor pushed off. However, when you look at the film you can clearly see the Dr. out jumped him. The most impressive observation in his exchange with Walton and Geoff Petrie was that he never bragged or boasted. No fist pumping or chest pounding. He simply would dunk on you and go back on defense. That's class!
+Byron McGhee Yeah, Byron I think the dunk you are talking about was in game 6 of the "77 finals! Right after the dunk Doc swatted the ball back towards the ref but it hit Walton! Someone said once he hit Walton on purpose! I ended up telling the guy he didn't know basketball and he certainly didn't know Erving! Also that dunk Walton had time and set himself for the block and nowhere in the entire sequence of that dunk does the top of Waltons' head come anywhere close to within a foot of the top of Ervings' head! Until they land! PS - And that was even taking into consideration Docs' HUGE Afro!! Ha, Ha, Hah! LOL!!
+Byron McGhee Great comment. Dr. J and the others of his generation were gentlemen. As a female fan, I really appreciate that: NO PROFANITY, NO NEED TO PROVE MANHOOD. WOW. Those were real men!
Byron McGhee My brother you speak the truth. the Dr. never showed anyone up on the court . just played the game at its highest level. And with so much class.
Santhanam, when someone crosses the line and puts their hands on you in a cowardly way, I call it self defense not getting under one's skin when you protect yourself. Dr. J in his last years was a better athlete than Bird was in his prime. Look at Bird now and look at Dr. J! Doc is fit and Bird is fat!
Class, Character and Charisma...these attributes attest to the measure of the person DrJ was. Unlike most Superstars who have the "weight" of a franchise on their shoulders, this guy carried TWO LEAGUES on his. BEST Ever!!
Magnificent!!!! Dr. Jay, the ultimate professional. A truly class act! Brought back so many memories. I saw two guys from my old neighborhood John Butch Purcell and Bob McCollough.
Watching the '83 finals, as a 17 year old die hard Laker fan, I was disappointed, but still I was happy for Dr. J. Looking back all these years later, I'm so happy that he won a championship!! NOBODY ever played in any sport that deserved it as much!!
Young men can learn a lot from Julius Irving and how he carried himself. I"m not saying he was perfect as no one is, but as a man, a father, an athlete, he's tops on my list.
Thank you, DR. J..........for all the wonderful thrills you brought us and ushering in the modern era of beyond excitement basketball. Blessings be on you and your family!
I had the high privilege of meeting him at LaGuardia Airport in NY.. It was 86 his last year. He was playing with a broken finger. A few kids ask for his autograph, which he gave, then they walked away.. I thanked him for being a class act. We chatted for almost 15 minutes.. Your excellent vocabulary is an inspiration to all young people.. Just Like Walt Clyde Frazer??? He laughed an said thank you.. Clyde is good.. Yes, but your much better.. Thanks for the memories.. Your Welcome he said. A Class act always..
I have always loved the Dr. He was my first basketball idol way before Bird and Jordan and the person who got me interested in basketball. Aside from being one of the greatest basketball players ever, he has always conducted himself with so much class and humbleness. But now add a great soul to this beautiful human being. Couldn’t help getting tears in my eyes after seeing he still hurting, after so many years, after his brother’s passing.
My childhood idol. Love how he drags his hand along the fence. Triggering memories . . . . So much respect for Mr. Erving. A real mensch. And... yes, I bawled during this documentary. “When greatness meets class . . . that is Dr. J.” Magic
He was one of the very Best, cannot imagine growing up without watching and modeling after his basketball. My dad and I use to watch him the Sixers and the Knicks!
My favorite athlete of all time in any sport. People don’t understand how this man changed the game of basketball forever. He brought the game from the slow down, methodical style of the 60’s into the modern above the rim era. Still the most graceful player in history.
Beautifully done!!! Every now and again the Lord will create a gift like Julius Erving, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Ghandi, Mother Teresa, no matter the genre they are grouped in...a gift changes lives. And with that gift there is a since of presence and Julius Erving has it.
I'm in tears. Today is seven years my beautiful wife Becky passed. In SoCal the sun shining after weeks of rain. Dr J is a beautiful human being. I'm still here LifeIsGood!
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
This is by far the greatest basketball documentary I’ve ever watched.
What a brilliant documentary. I can honestly say that it is one that brought tears to my eyes but not those of sadness. The man has suffered personal loss that can just consume one’s being. He somehow found the strength to move on and give memories and joy to the fans that were fortunate enough to see him play. What a man. A truly class act Dr Julius Erving🙏🏼
@@cg1able >00"00
Very well done.
I had the pleasure of meeting him once. I was a chef at a restaurant in Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta; and he came into our spot to eat. Pure CLASS!!!
The doctor was a surgeon he will make you want you to come back from the dead Just to watch him play, 🤙😂❤😎😀
41 years old, and finally took a moment to see who Julius Erving really was... Holy sh!t I'm so glad I did. Legend.
Cool !!!!! I'm seeing this docu for the first time. Love It. I grew up hearing the Name Dr. J. At approx. 17:30 of this docu I heard the words sold to for x amount of money and it stop me dead in ny tracks. Sound like this an extension of slavery. Buying and selling the best Buck Niggah for profit
yea me 2 , he had a great legacy
Right
Yes me too... Same age as well ☺
48 yrs old...me too brother!!!!
What an awesome story. Never knew he suffered such heart-ache. Dr. J was always modest, professional, and a role model. Truly a great player, but more importantly...a great person.
Dr. J's interviews were so humbling, modest, and the epitome of high class🙌🏾
Great comment.
By far the most influential, emotional, classy, humbling documentary I’ve seen. The man who literally paved the road for the NBA. Bow down to the DOC!!!
1,000% SPOT~ONNN, Bear!!
@user-gu4tv4hp6s As much as I'd like to thumb this up, I can't. It's simply not true.
INDEED!
😊
What a good man when he talked about his brother it broke my heart God bless you
When Greatness Meets Class . . that says it all . . . so awesome!
I'm not even a sports fan but the greatness, class & dignity of Dr. J is undeniable.
2023 in the house. I lived in Philly when Dr. J was doing his thing. Floating through the air, with the greatest of ease!!
This was one of the greatest sports documentaries I ever seen. I had a lump in my throat watching it. The J was pure class, something that seems to be lacking in professional sports today.
texasvice1 man I had that same lump in my throat watching it. That's why I came here, to watch the greatest player I believe to have played the game.
No, he wasn't pure class. He has a dark side. A dishonorable side.
Everyone has a side that is not made for T.V., but why would you say that? Just asking.
you are absolutely correct...
Tamila Shultz plz do tell..I'll wait...........
Julius Erving is and will always be a class act. He is the one many professional players should emulate. He was professional on and off the court. Truly a class act.
@Tammy T how u figured when he fought Bird before....Dr.J never backed down.
@Tammy T Only a fool would even discuss this, must be very young. Happy Holiday's.
@Tammy T u are young....but no excuse with anything just do your research. Dr. J was/is still bigger then basketball.
@Tammy T You're a hater. Looking to bring people down to your level. Ask Bird what he thinks of Dr J and vice versa. You need a new heart. Only Jesus can help you and I pray you'll humble yourself and receive His Light instead of your darkness.
Agreed
Damn this was an amazing documentary, brought tears to my eye. This man did alot for the black community and to be honest it looked like he helped bring the whole nation together.
Mine too!💯
He did a lot for the human community. Dignity, humility and class appeals to all communities.
Beautiful to see Magic's commentary about how Doc invited him to his house showing him what NBA life would be like. In addition, Magic being an awed fan not a competitor on Doctor's historic move on Lakers. Damn, Magic is so real and pure in his view on Doc.
"I found the guy how started it all". Thank you for saying that MJ. Honor should always be given to whom it is due!
im glad my childhood was in the 70's. We had the greatest stars in all sports to be our heros. Aaron and Banks in baseball, Payton in football, Ali in boxing, and of course, the great Dr J in basketball. Thanks Doc for changing the way basketball was seen and played.
David Brent 🍻
80's wasnt soo bad either.
Yes yes !
Yes fact 💯
Yessir, I'm a GenXr. Great times to grow up in.
This documentary is so well done. Every time I start watching it, I can't stop. This is the third time I have seen it and it feels like the first time again....but better.
Yeah, I just watched the entire video. How could you not watch this all the way through???
Love it!
S Wiffle, Great job !!! Dr. J was my all-time basketball hero and did it with class. Never let his talent get to his head. No ego,just played ball.
For me the greatest of all times when you combine his natural talent, persona, class and values. Came to the USA in 1978. He was the first player I came to love watching on the court. I was living in Washington DC where the Washington Bullets played, but loved the Philadelphia 76’ers because of him. Suffered the many years when he did not win the NBA World Championship and cried like a little kid when he finally did in 1983. The first time I cried as an adult. This documentary brought it all home for me. What a unique and special person DJ is and will always be.
The said I ever know was let it Flow..
As a teenager I remember getting so excited to see the Doctor play. 40+ years later, I realize more the greatness he is. So composed, so together, an inspiration for everyone
i Just wanted to take a peak at this clip...........ended up watching the whole thing. Brilliant Basketball. Julius - what a gentleman!
I too..
Queen Majesty Me too...lol but could not stop......do glad I did not.
F'real mon.
Me too
Dr J
Man I'm so glad I saw this. Julius .. you made my day and opened my eyes. Thank you sir.
The doc saved basketball, the greats that came after him know this and its nice to see them pay homage to him.
As they should !
Dr.j drove people on the bus 🚌 to nba basketball areana, sold popcorn, soda etc etc dr.j airwalk or moonwalk moves towards the basket 🧺, to score
I agree
Right on
He’s the fish!!!
I moved to the States in 1980 knowing nothing about basketball. The first time I watched Doc play I was hooked. To this day he remains my favourite player - ever.
A gentle giant! How many times have we heard that saying? Respect,Class,Passion humanity and talent out of this world. Always the best. Dr.J long live and prosper.
The true golden age of basketball, gone forever. I miss those days, but I am so glad to have witnessed it. Thank you Dr. J!
He was so far ahead of his time. Class!
❤ dr.j my hero too, ❤ dr.j airwalk or moonwalk moves towards the basket 🧺, to score
Feeling the same‼️❤️class and greatness👍🏼
I remember seeing Dr.J at the Ruckers in 1972 I was 17 at the time I shook hands with him after a game wow! His hands was big. There were about 20 kids waiting 4 him he took the time 2 sign his autograph 4 all of us 2 me that made an impact on me even now at 62 that time is still special 4 me
I've always heard he was a nice guy
You didn't shake hands with him, you shook a portion of his hand.
@@srj34 Haha!
Sounds like a life lasting experience happy so happy you go that opportunity sir God blessings to you.
My Daddy loved this man till death
@@disprogreavette8545 hmmmm
The Dr. was my all time hero! I ate, slept, and dreamt about becoming him as a kid! Majic said it best, what a supreme example of class mixed with God given talent! Thank you Dr. J for what you modled and continue to model for me!
Well said😊
👌👌💙
EXQUISITELY~said, Eric!!
Me too. Me too.
Ditto
I couldn't believe that I watched this with tears running down my face Thanks for the memories DrJ
Brings back memories! My old stomping grounds...Saw Julius play from high school to 76ers. My all-time favorite player ever! The only reason colleges slept on Julius is because they never saw him play at Roosevelt, Kennedy, Lakeview, and Centennial Parks...lol
Beautiful documentary. Just beautiful. I'm tearing up. I love this man.
The Original Kings same here
Julius Winfield Erving, has ALWAYS lived up to his reputation. On and off the court.
This Was Amazin...Im a 50 yr old guy...Cryin n shit from all these memories...damn Doc...I hate u went thru sooo much pain brah...but I soooo appreciate n respect your path...Gid Bless you and Your Family Man...To your Brother n Son Corey....TRUST U MADE EM PROUD MAN...MAY THEY REST IN HEAVEN!!!!
Amen!@@c.ltowns4932
The Original Kings I feel you bro, I love him too !!
When u read the word “ Humble” in the dictionary, his picture is there !!!! Thank you Dr. J for giving all of us Hopes and dreams !!!
Unlike the stars of today Dr. J is a true class act.
Totally agree
Had the pleasure of watching him crush spirits on my Virginia Squires in the early 70’s. Jumping out of the gym on a nightly basis! Amazing player, better man, a class act!
Kurt Adams has
Amen🤗
Amen
My hero growing up in the 70’s! He was a fierce competitor while being a consummate gentleman! He made BBall what it is today!
Tt à fait !
He was a great player without a doubt. After watching this, I think his biggest imprint was the gentleman and class act he always was. If I’m half the man he was, I’ll call it a good life.
His legacy is unquestioned , but call him a “gentleman and class act“ is a bit of a stretch. Are you not aware of the daughter he refused to acknowledge for most of her adult life?
Edit: when I initially wrote this comment, I hadn’t even realized that it was the product of an extra marital affair. On top of that, he did it twice!
So, he’s serial adulterer who fathered two children with separate mistresses. Hardly what I would call a class act!
OK, if you want to cheat on your wife with multiple women and have two children outside of that marriage and then not even be in the life of them as well. OK, if you’re going to be only half as good as that lol.
Young child says: "I'm tired... They [the angels] need to come get me"... How sad and yet this child knew he was going and was ready to go to heaven; accompanied by angels... So sad; yet so beautiful Peace w/ a smile
Beautiful, but heart 💔breakingly sad at the same time. Followed Dr. Jay and big '76 fan in 80's, he was exciting to watch, a living basketball Legend G.O.A.T. even then it just seems like he carried a sadness... lost his son in 2000, shortly after parted ways with his wife of many years, makes you wonder😌As a star ABA and NBA superstar player was great family in spotlight news media, presented himself always as humble and a classy pro basketball athlete💙✨💜
To this day, I'm very cautious about saying I'm tierd. I have heard it to many times close to death. But I believe "they" know. GOD BLESS🙏🏽
I am a 76ers fan from 800 mi away because of Doc. Magic said it best: the embodiment of greatness and class! About to dunk still at age 60+. Amazing! Still my favorite NBA player of all time.
As if I needed a reason to love the guy more than I already did. He's the reason I got hooked to the NBA. Much respect.
I watched the Last Dance and there is one thing Dr Julius had on and off the court from the other players in the league as well as his teammates and that is RESPECT. I loved the rocking' chair at his final game which said so much how the other players saw him.
What a guy! Growing up outside Philly in NJ, I remember him so well and I have never been a sports person but who didn't know him? He was a legend, a hero, a Black Man to be admired on so many levels. Still, he carries that. Watching this special brought me such joy, lifting my spirits at a moment when it was sorely needed. Greatness personified!
A Good person
All I got to say is the Dr. could operate !......A true legend
so handsome, too!!!
I always had a crush on him. Remember the old movie: the fish that saved Pittsburgh?🥰
One of my favorite documentaries. Didnt expect to get so emotional. I heard about him but I never watched his stories. Very happy I did. Will never be another Doctor J👨⚕️🏀
I saw this when it first came out. I'm crying again 😭. I have only cried three times in the last 25 years. My father's death and the two times I watched this documentary.
@@michaelbeale518
I'm sorry to hear that. I lost my father as well. Life is so short.
Me too, I've heard but never paid attention till now. Much love and respect Dr J Julius Irving. An epic shot caught on this documentary at the end when he made that last dunk shot and still got it at his age now 😲 WOWSERS 👏👏👏👏🙌 GOD BLESS YOU MR IRVING SIR❤️
🥲 mine too!💙
Dr J was excellent
This is by far the Greatest sports Doc I have ever seen in my life.. I have never felt so many emotions watching something as I did this.. Thank you for allowing us to learn more about this man . He truly is a legend
I'm from UK moved to Cali and I watched the whole thing..it was epic...The story encapsulates the American dream it's perfect and what truly makes America great.
Amen!
I respect him so much, he is an honorable man, a man of substance and character. Too often that's hard to find today, I hope more young men and boys see this story and want to emulate this man....his light shines so others can follow. May God continue to bless him and protect him and his family.
So thankful that this showed up on my RUclips feed! Wow! Excellent documentary about a man who decided to live to his fullest potential! Greatness indeed!!! Bravo to everyone involved in creating this piece... Including God who formed this Greatness in his mother's womb!
Simply classy. I watched the Dr. Play all that I could. Just the best. Good luck Julius!
I had no idea that Dr.J had those kind of moments; losing his son and his brother yet maintaining his grace and poise. Just admirable.
I had partial season ticked to the sixers during the Doctor J era. And also, play off tickets to the series the sixers went down to Walton and the Trail Blazers in the playoffs. Doctor J is a class act and fine human being.
One day fishing by run arount the River drive and finishing at the front of the Art Museus I saw 4 of Philadelphia's top pro atletes being photographed because all the teams had great seasons. As I was not shy, I went over to the small group and asked for autographs and I did even have a pencil or pen with me. Doc told me to walk over to car with him and asked me to get in out of the weathe because is was a cold raw and wet day.
He is, and always has been, one hell of a man. Thanks Doc.
Nice documentary for us young folks to appreciate what some of these greats did for the game of basketball
Easily one of the greatest and most uplifting sports documentaries I have ever watched. If there was a "Mt. Rushmore" honoring the greatest American athletes, Dr. J's face would be carved into it.
I’m a 46 year-old man, and less than 3 minutes in, I’m bawling when he starts talking about his sickly little brother, and how that fragile state of his brother’s health only made him even more protective.
He loses his dad as a young boy...loses his brother while he was in college, and rather than shut down, he instead found that determination and commitment that would make him one of NBA’s Top 50 players of all-time.
One of the classiest men I have ever seen portrayed.
I just turned 70. I still remember him. I've been crying for the last 30 minutes. A man for all seasons. A wonderful piece.
John Larson moo
Try top 5!
You certainly FELT the anguish.
Great comment
He is really aging gracefully....thanks Dr.J for opening the door and being the inspiration for cats like Michael Jordon ,Kobe Bryant and LeBron James
very austere and handsome
I have watched him his whole NBA Career I love him the is A Beautiful Man Continue Your Journey
Definitely an exceptional man and ABA/NBA veteran. Such a privilege to have watched him play in real time.
yes true, but you know there were some other "unknowns" at the Rucker who helped turn him into the Badass he was. jus saying,It wasn't just the man but the culture that surrounded the man that brought out his potential. bucket list: I need to go see Rucker park one day.
16davelle 😞R.I.P. Kobe
Over so many yrs Mr. Erving can still tear up about his brother. After all the stuff he has been through. That (to me) shows a man with exponential growth. Complete respect for this man
True definition of a Legend. This is who Jordan loved when he was a kid
This is one of the best documentaries I've seen. I've had tears of joy and sadness. Dr. J is truly a great man!
This was beautiful I was able to see him play before he retired !!! Awesome man he is the definition of swagga!!!!!
Without a doubt my favorite Documentary ever. Thank you so much for posting this!
As a kid I remember Dr.J and having the feeling ,that the world was empty once Dr.J left the NBA...I even cried but just having the opportunity to watch him play was enough.
Yes yes !
@@dawnpratt846 It was fitting that his last game was in Milwaukee. Standing ovation from the organization/fans who drafted him with the 12th pick in 1971 NBA draft. It may have been crazy pairing him with Jabbar and the BIG O. Wonderful blessed and UNIQUE basketball PHENOMENON.
i still remember the time Dr. J was literally out of bounds (in the air) and reached underneath the backboard and made the shot. Bad-ass-hell !!! always great!!!
Man watching Mike Piazza get so emotional and giddy about Dr. J. inspiring him, I got a bit misty eyed! Listening to the narrations and the music, highlights, testimonies, and sorrowful moments has me wanting to see a movie of Julius Erving’s life.
Excellent documentary...class personified.
I grew up idolizing Dr. J! While going to school in Lincoln Nebraska, my brother got tickets in 1983 to a Kansas City Kings vs. Sixer's game. The only thing I remember was watching the greatest, coolest, and classiest player to ever play the game! The players who followed were some great players, but it was never as awe-inspiring, or electric before Julius Erving or since!
dr. j revolutionized basketball....he was what the current nba needs to adopt....class, style, good sportsmanshp, along with amazing moves and a fairness thats missing in the game now....he should be the commissioner of the nba...and losing a son is something i can identify with...my son was overmedicated and died of a heart attack at 16...and like dr.j, i overcame the loss and continue to be a man my son would be proud of...ALL of the millionaires in the nba should give homage to the GREATEST OF ALL TIME...JULIUS DR. J ERVING
He was classy and a good sport...But he did fire on Larry Bird when his team mates were holding Bird... Bird talked a lot of shit ....and backed it up too!
I am a boston celtics fan since I was young, but this Man is pure legend..God exists, and he's been wearing n.6!
I was a Nets fan as a kid, and was lucky enough to witness the ABA via local telecasts. Julius was incredible beyond words! I was crushed when the Nets sold him to Philadelphia. Unfortunately, people never saw Erving at his very very best .....not because he wasn't as great, but because the Sixers were chock full of stars that were ball hogs. Even in 1983, as great as he still was, he wasn't the same Erving that he was when he was younger.
Wow that was special. Dr . J was my first favorite professional athlete. I lived in Portland when the Blazers beat them in the NBA finals. Everyone expected you to root for the Blazers, but I secretly wanted Philadelphia to win because of Dr. J! 👍🏽
Man I’m 55 years old and I teared up at the end. The man is in a class all by himself.
I watched Mr. Erving in the 70's with the Squires and the Nets of the ABA. I then followed him when he was with the 76er's. I remember him dunking over Bill Walton. Walton is quoted as saying the Doctor pushed off. However, when you look at the film you can clearly see the Dr. out jumped him. The most impressive observation in his exchange with Walton and Geoff Petrie was that he never bragged or boasted. No fist pumping or chest pounding. He simply would dunk on you and go back on defense. That's class!
+Byron McGhee Yeah, Byron I think the dunk you are talking about was in game 6 of the "77 finals! Right after the dunk Doc swatted the ball back towards the ref but it hit Walton! Someone said once he hit Walton on purpose! I ended up telling the guy he didn't know basketball and he certainly didn't know Erving! Also that dunk Walton had time and set himself for the block and nowhere in the entire sequence of that dunk does the top of Waltons' head come anywhere close to within a foot of the top of Ervings' head! Until they land!
PS - And that was even taking into consideration Docs' HUGE Afro!! Ha, Ha, Hah! LOL!!
+Byron McGhee Great comment. Dr. J and the others of his generation were gentlemen. As a female fan, I really appreciate that: NO PROFANITY, NO NEED TO PROVE MANHOOD. WOW. Those were real men!
Byron McGhee My brother you speak the truth. the Dr. never showed anyone up on the court . just played the game at its highest level. And with so much class.
Only the great Larry Bird got under the skin of Dr J. A past-his-prime Dr J admittedly.
Santhanam, when someone crosses the line and puts their hands on you in a cowardly way, I call it self defense not getting under one's skin when you protect yourself. Dr. J in his last years was a better athlete than Bird was in his prime. Look at Bird now and look at Dr. J! Doc is fit and Bird is fat!
Class, Character and Charisma...these attributes attest to the measure of the person DrJ was. Unlike most Superstars who have the "weight" of a franchise on their shoulders, this guy carried TWO LEAGUES on his.
BEST Ever!!
Erik Hopkins ,that the point.
Great comment, brother. 👌
Magnificent!!!! Dr. Jay, the ultimate professional. A truly class act! Brought back so many memories. I saw two guys from my old neighborhood John Butch Purcell and Bob McCollough.
THE GREATEST TO EVER PLAY THE GAME. TOOK IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL.✊
WRONG
@Christopher Olson ??
You are 100 percent right. Dr j was the greatest
Yep he was the League:ruclips.net/video/UWNM2ZdVBgg/видео.html
@Jason Swift who u say it is?
What a great personality, and a legend.
Damn, what an inspiration Julius Erving is.
He was the best of men! to portray class and intelligence and just a well rounded human being. Amazing!
ruclips.net/video/PZlKJDq1UAg/видео.html
The greatest player before Michael Jordan
A true gentleman and icon!
Watching the '83 finals, as a 17 year old die hard Laker fan, I was disappointed, but still I was happy for Dr. J. Looking back all these years later, I'm so happy that he won a championship!! NOBODY ever played in any sport that deserved it as much!!
Great documentary on Julius "Dr. J" Erving🏀
I read his book and it changed my life! Thank you!
Great video about a class individual and one of the true greats.
Young men can learn a lot from Julius Irving and how he carried himself. I"m not saying he was perfect as no one is, but as a man, a father, an athlete, he's tops on my list.
Thank you, DR. J..........for all the wonderful thrills you brought us and ushering in the modern era of beyond excitement basketball. Blessings be on you and your family!
America's GREATEST human being. Julius Erving a man of class and respect, husband and father became the world's greatest basketball player.
Dr.J is such a class act
respectable
I had the high privilege of meeting him at LaGuardia Airport in NY.. It was 86 his last year. He was playing with a broken finger.
A few kids ask for his autograph, which he gave, then they walked away..
I thanked him for being a class act. We chatted for almost 15 minutes..
Your excellent vocabulary is an inspiration to all young people.. Just Like Walt Clyde Frazer???
He laughed an said thank you..
Clyde is good..
Yes, but your much better.. Thanks for the memories..
Your Welcome he said.
A Class act always..
I can believe Dr. J wasn't given the recognition that he richly deserved. He was an extraordinary player!
Great man, great family. Nicely presented.
I have always loved the Dr. He was my first basketball idol way before Bird and Jordan and the person who got me interested in basketball. Aside from being one of the greatest basketball players ever, he has always conducted himself with so much class and humbleness. But now add a great soul to this beautiful human being. Couldn’t help getting tears in my eyes after seeing he still hurting, after so many years, after his brother’s passing.
My childhood idol. Love how he drags his hand along the fence. Triggering memories . . . . So much respect for Mr. Erving. A real mensch. And... yes, I bawled during this documentary.
“When greatness meets class . . . that is Dr. J.” Magic
I got to meet my hero...a humble man, who went out of his way to say hello!
Julius, thank you. We feel your pain, and love you and your family.
Amen!!!
great documentary!! classiest player ever..without question
Dr. J did the best reverse layup I've ever seen in the history of basketball
STILL watching this in May 2020.... and he's STILL my idol and one of the G.O.A.T.S.
By far the greatest player of all time even a 56 year old overweight white guy had Julius as an idol you are the greatest
@Tammy T Top 15 player ever. Stay safe with the Pandemic.
@Tammy T Stop Hating
@Tammy T Michael Jordan already admitted that Dr. (J) Jew Julius was his study.
First Class! The man the legend.
the most exciting player ever
And doctor J says "just another move". Classic
Ì was at a game and saw him take off from the free throw line and fly over 3 defenders on his way to the basket. Just another move.True, that.
He was one of the very Best, cannot imagine growing up without watching and modeling after his basketball. My dad and I use to watch him the Sixers and the Knicks!
My favorite athlete of all time in any sport. People don’t understand how this man changed the game of basketball forever. He brought the game from the slow down, methodical style of the 60’s into the modern above the rim era. Still the most graceful player in history.
🗣️ELGIN BAYLOR WAS DOING IT , IN THE 1960 ' S . MICHAEL JORDAN IS THEE MOST GRACEFUL PLAYER▶️ EVER .>🎤 🏀🗑️
Beautifully done!!! Every now and again the Lord will create a gift like Julius Erving, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Ghandi, Mother Teresa, no matter the genre they are grouped in...a gift changes lives. And with that gift there is a since of presence and Julius Erving has it.
Cheryl Williams God don't make junk we all are "gifts" - some just don't know it
I have cried, smiled and now I am still proud of the one and only Dr. J.
This is an amazing story of life. I truly admire Julius Erving. Always a class act...76er's are forever my favorite past team because of the Doctor!
I'm in tears. Today is seven years my beautiful wife Becky passed. In SoCal the sun shining after weeks of rain. Dr J is a beautiful human being. I'm still here LifeIsGood!
Such a fitting title; " When greatness meets class.". The Dr is just greatness! A man of elegance and humility. He changed the game! I love it!