“Larry Bird and his supporters need to understand that, when Dr. J started, Larry was nowhere…” – JJ Redick supports Dr. J against Larry Bird
JJ Redick recently made a statement in defense of Julius Erving, famously known as Dr. J, saying, “Larry Bird and his supporters need to understand that, when Dr. J started, Larry was nowhere.” This remark has reignited the debate between fans and analysts about the legacies of two of the most iconic figures in basketball history.
Redick’s comment highlights an important aspect of the Bird-Dr. J comparison: the different eras in which they began their careers. Julius Erving started his professional career in the early 1970s, initially playing in the ABA before the league merged with the NBA. During his time in the ABA, Dr. J was a revolutionary player, known for his high-flying dunks and incredible athleticism. His influence was so profound that he helped popularize the modern style of play that emphasizes athleticism and flair. Erving’s ABA career was filled with accolades, including two championships and three MVP awards.
When Dr. J made the transition to the NBA, he continued to be a dominant force. He led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA championship in 1983 and was named the league’s MVP in 1981. His career NBA averages of 22 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, combined with his ABA statistics, underscore his impact on the sport.
Larry Bird, on the other hand, began his NBA career in 1979 with the Boston Celtics. His arrival in the league marked the beginning of one of the most celebrated rivalries in sports history, particularly with Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers. Bird’s career was characterized by his exceptional shooting, basketball IQ, and competitive nature. Over his 13-season career, Bird averaged 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. He led the Celtics to three NBA championships and earned three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986.
Redick’s support for Dr. J points to the context in which both players made their marks. When Erving began his career, he was one of the most exciting and influential players in the game, setting a standard for future generations. Bird’s career, though overlapping with Erving’s, saw him enter the league several years later, during a time when the NBA was growing in popularity and competitiveness, partly due to the groundwork laid by players like Dr. J.
Redick’s statement can be seen as an acknowledgment of Dr. J’s foundational role in the development of the modern game. Erving’s impact went beyond statistics; he was a cultural icon who brought a new level of excitement and athleticism to basketball. His style of play and his success in both the ABA and NBA helped bridge the gap between the two leagues and contributed to the NBA’s rise in prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
While Bird’s statistical achievements and championships are undeniable, Redick’s comments suggest that the conversation about greatness should also consider the broader context of a player’s influence on the game and their era. Dr. J was a trailblazer whose contributions set the stage for the NBA’s golden era in the 1980s, which included the emergence of stars like Bird and Magic Johnson.
In conclusion, JJ Redick’s defense of Julius Erving emphasizes the importance of considering the historical context and influence of players when discussing their legacies. While Larry Bird’s achievements are monumental, Dr. J’s role in shaping the game and paving the way for future stars is equally significant. The debate between Bird and Erving highlights the multifaceted nature of greatness in basketball, where statistics, influence, and timing all play crucial roles.
