Skip to content

Questions about Julius Erving

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When and where was Julius Erving born?

Julius Winfield Erving II was born on the 22nd of February 1950 in East Meadow, New York. He moved to Roosevelt at age 13 and attended Roosevelt High School.

Why did Julius Erving get the nickname Dr J?

A high school friend named Leon Saunders gave him the nickname Doctor during their time together as buddies. The moniker evolved into Dr J over time after other players called him Black Moses or Houdini.

How many points per game did Julius Erving average at UMass?

During two varsity seasons he averaged 26.3 points and 20.2 rebounds per game. This made him one of only six players to average more than 20 points and 20 rebounds in NCAA history.

What happened when Julius Erving signed with the Atlanta Hawks?

Judge Edward Neaher issued an injunction on October 2 prohibiting him from playing for any team other than the Squires. NBA Commissioner J. Walter Kennedy fined the Hawks $25,000 per game for violating the ruling.

Which teams did Julius Erving play for during his career?

Erving played for the Virginia Squires and New York Nets in the ABA before joining the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. He retired in 1987 at age 37 after announcing he would leave following that season.

When was Julius Erving's number retired by which teams?

His number 32 jersey was retired by the Brooklyn Nets and No. 6 by the Philadelphia 76ers. He became a businessman obtaining ownership of a Coca-Cola bottling plant in Philadelphia.