Dominique Wilkins, known for his spectacular dunks and high-flying athleticism, often speaks with admiration about the influence Julius “Dr. J” Erving had on his career. As one of the most electrifying players in NBA history, Wilkins credits Erving as a primary inspiration for his own dunking prowess and overall approach to the game. The statement “Everybody wants to be like Julius Erving” captures the widespread admiration and influence Dr. J has had on countless players, including Wilkins.
Growing up, Wilkins idolized Erving, who was renowned for his creativity and flair on the court. Erving’s ability to captivate audiences with his acrobatic dunks and smooth style of play set a new standard for what it meant to be an exciting and dynamic basketball player. “Watching Julius Erving was like watching a magician on the court,” Wilkins once said. “He could do things that nobody else could do, and he did it with such grace and power.”
Erving’s impact on Wilkins was profound, particularly in the way he approached the art of dunking. Erving’s legendary status was cemented by iconic moments like his “Rock the Baby” dunk and his memorable free-throw line dunk during the 1976 ABA Dunk Contest. These feats not only thrilled fans but also inspired young athletes to push the boundaries of what was possible in the game. Wilkins, known as the “Human Highlight Film,” took these lessons to heart, developing his own style that combined power, finesse, and creativity.
“Julius made dunking an art form,” Wilkins said. “He showed that it was more than just a way to score points—it was a way to express yourself and energize the crowd.” This philosophy guided Wilkins throughout his career, leading to his own memorable moments in the Dunk Contest and in games, where his high-flying dunks became a trademark of his playing style.
Wilkins’ admiration for Erving extended beyond just his dunking ability. He respected Erving’s professionalism, leadership, and the way he carried himself both on and off the court. “Julius was a role model in every sense of the word,” Wilkins noted. “He showed how to handle success with humility and how to inspire others through your actions.”
The legacy of Erving’s influence on Wilkins is evident not only in Wilkins’ highlight reels but also in the way he has inspired subsequent generations of players. Just as Erving motivated Wilkins to elevate his game, Wilkins has served as an inspiration for younger players who look up to him as a pioneer of the modern dunk.
In essence, the statement “Everybody wants to be like Julius Erving” reflects a sentiment shared by many of Erving’s contemporaries and successors. Erving’s combination of athleticism, skill, and charisma set a benchmark for excellence in basketball. For Dominique Wilkins, Erving’s influence was a catalyst that drove him to develop his own unique style and to become one of the most iconic dunkers in NBA history. Through their shared love of the game and the artistry of the dunk, Erving and Wilkins have left an indelible mark on basketball, inspiring countless players and thrilling fans around the world.
