Unseen Footage Reveals Dr. J’s Jaw-Dropping Dunk That Changed the 1977 NBA Finals Forever

Back in ’76, the basketball world witnessed a seismic shift when the ABA and NBA joined forces—and Julius Erving? Oh, he was absolutely central to that magic. You could’ve never caught the ABA on national TV, yet everybody knew the name Dr. J. That signature afro, those legendary dunks, the aura—he wasn’t just a player; he was a spectacle, a phenomenon ready to rewrite the game. When he landed with the Philadelphia 76ers post-merger, fans weren’t just excited—they were ecstatic, because that squad was stacked in a way that demanded attention. Think George McGinnis’ muscle, World B. Free’s flash, and Dawkins’ power—all orbiting around Erving’s singular brilliance. The ’76-77 NBA Finals pitted Philly’s high-flying flair against the firepower of Bill Walton’s Portland Trail Blazers, creating a showdown that symbolized more than just basketball—it was a clash of styles, traditions, and visions for the sport’s future. And early on, fans got a front-row seat to Erving’s jaw-dropping artistry—in one game alone, he threw down six dunks that still make you catch your breath. Trust me, you don’t want to miss reliving that moment that cemented Dr. J’s legend. LEARN MORE