The Herd with Colin Cowherd Joe and Jada - Julius "Dr. J" Erving on ABA & NBA glory days, evolution of the dunk & athletes' role in civil rights era
Feb 19, 2026
Julius "Dr. J" Erving, Hall of Famer famed for electrifying dunks and ABA/NBA dominance. He revisits perfecting high-flying flair, life and refuge in the ABA during turbulent civil rights years, athletes' roles in social change, early days of hip hop, and a tight circle of cultural icons. Short, vivid stories and reflections on legacy and responsibility.
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Perfecting The Dunk, Not Inventing It
- Julius "Dr. J" Erving recounts seeing earlier dunkers like Wilt Chamberlain and Jumpin' Johnny Green and clarifies he perfected, not invented, the dunk.
- He explains his one-handed control and stylistic tweaks that made dunks an exclamation point in his play.
Basketball As Refuge During Turmoil
- Playing in the ABA gave Dr. J a sanctuary from turbulent national events during his formative years.
- Basketball offered focus and purpose amid assassinations and the Vietnam draft that affected his generation.
Choosing Dr. King’s Path
- Julius "Dr. J" Erving says he sided with Martin Luther King and describes being raised Baptist by parents from South Carolina.
- He connects that upbringing to his worldview during the civil rights era and his public stance.