"Dr. J" famous "Rock the Baby" Cradle Dunk against the Lakers
Julius Erving, known as "Dr.J." is one of the best players in ABA and NBA History, as he was one of the most stylish superstars of the '70s and '80s. Many consider him one of the most talented players in the history of the NBA, as he is widely acknowledged as one of the game's best dunkers.
Late during the 1982-1983 NBA Season, the Philadelphia 76ers were hosting the Los Angeles Lakers in a finals rematch. As the Lakers beat them the season before a rivalry was brewing in the air. Although Mosses Malone was the leading scorer of the team, Erving was the one delivering highlights.
On this particular play, the 76ers stole the ball, as Erving caught the ball on the sideline and got into a foot race with Michael Cooper. He wasn't in the most favorable position, but as he got to the key he palmed the ball with one hand, rocked it, and jumped for the dunk as Cooper went with him trying to block him. But Erving fully avoided him, punching it with extreme power. The crowd went into a frenzy as "Dr.J." slowly jogged back on defense. It was the perfect mix of grace and power.
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Michael Cooper himself said: "When Dr.J. broke down the baseline I thought this was my chance to make a great play against a great player. But I saw that wasn't going to happen so I just ducked and got out of the way. Greatest dunk of all time."
Later that season the 76ers went on to win the NBA Finals as they swept the Lakers, completing their revenge.
