The 1977 NBA Finals: A Battle for Basketball's Future
In the upcoming book, "Moses and The Doctor," author Luke Epplin delves into a pivotal moment in basketball history. It's a story of more than just a game; it's a tale of racial dynamics, societal implications, and the fight for the soul of basketball itself.
The Stage is Set
The year was 1977, and the NBA had just merged with its rival, the American Basketball Association (ABA). This merger brought a new era of talent, with one of the most notable additions being Julius Erving, who joined the Philadelphia 76ers. With Erving, George McGinnis, and Doug Collins leading the way, the Sixers dominated the Eastern Conference, earning their spot in the NBA Finals against the Portland Trail Blazers, led by the legendary Bill Walton.
A Tale of Two Teams
As the teams prepared for their showdown, the contrast between them was stark. The Sixers, a loose-knit group with a freewheeling style, were seen as the undisciplined rebels. Their practices were as unpredictable as their personalities, with Erving famously saying, "We are not a blackboard team. We've never believed in orderly practices."
On the other hand, the Trail Blazers were the epitome of precision and structure. Their practices were like a well-rehearsed symphony, with head coach Jack Ramsay conducting the orchestra. Lionel Hollins, the Blazers' guard, described their system as "part of our DNA."
The Battle of Styles
For many, this Finals matchup was more than a game; it was a battle of ideologies. The traditionalists, uncomfortable with the influence of streetball, saw it as a clash between the playground and the playbook, between individual flair and team structure. The Sixers were the embodiment of this new, expressive style, while the Trail Blazers represented the old-school, disciplined approach.
The racial undertones were hard to ignore. The Sixers, a predominantly Black team, were often criticized for their style, with the media using language that echoed stereotypes of the Black inner city. They were called "squabbling," "unruly," and "authority-averse." In contrast, the Trail Blazers, a predominantly white team, were hailed as purists, the embodiment of teamwork and discipline.
The Impact of Dr. J
At the center of this narrative was Julius Erving, or "Dr. J," as he was often called. Erving, a superstar in his own right, had to navigate the expectations and stereotypes that came with his fame. He had to balance his creative instincts with the team's needs, averaging eight points less than his previous season in the ABA. Some saw this as a sacrifice, while others saw it as a sign of the team's lack of discipline.
There were two narratives surrounding Erving. One portrayed him as a sellout, leaving his home league for a superteam, carrying the stigma of the ABA with him. The other celebrated him as the leader of the league's foremost Black club, a symbol of expression and individuality.
Bill Walton: The Great White Hope?
Bill Walton, Erving's counterpart on the Trail Blazers, had his own baggage to carry. His off-court persona, a long-haired, left-leaning vegetarian, was a stark contrast to the traditional NBA player. He had faced scrutiny and even questioning by the FBI for his political views and associations. Darryl Dawkins, a player for the Sixers, cut to the core of the double standard, noting that a Black player with similar views would have been banished.
Yet, Walton's talent and impact on the court were undeniable. He was a player of exceptional instincts, a force that could boost his team without scoring. As the first post-merger Finals approached, Walton's club represented the best chance for many to see white team basketball triumph over Black expressive individualism.
The Series: A Tale of Two Games
Game 1 saw the Sixers take an early lead, with Erving putting up an impressive 33 points. Despite the Blazers' efforts, the Sixers' fast-paced style proved too much, winning 107-101. Erving, in a veiled response to his critics, stated, "I don't have anything to prove to anyone."
Game 2 was a different story. It was a display of the Sixers' beauty and chaos. The game descended into a brawl, with players and fans alike involved. Darryl Dawkins, incensed, stormed into the locker room, destroying furniture and fixtures. His teammates felt let down, especially by Erving, who sat on the court, a silent witness to the chaos.
The series took a turn in Game 3, with the Blazers dominating and the Sixers falling apart. The once-united team was now divided, with players arguing over playing time. Game 4 saw the Sixers' offense sputter, and they fell behind early, never to recover.
A Desperate Attempt
With their backs against the wall, head coach Gene Shue called for a team meeting. Erving, sensing the need for a change, decided to bring out "Dr. J." He took control, demanding the ball and scoring at will. In one memorable play, he dunked over Walton and then flicked the ball off his back, a small act of playground defiance.
But it wasn't enough. Exhausted, Erving couldn't keep up with the Blazers' forward, Bob Gross, who scored an impressive 49 points in the final two games. The Trail Blazers, true to their philosophy of collective good, had all five starters averaging double digits, a testament to their balanced approach.
The Aftermath
The Sixers' loss left a bitter taste, especially for Erving. He knew that their style, often criticized, could have been validated with a win. Instead, the traditionalists celebrated, seeing their victory as a preservation of tradition.
Philadelphia, a city known for its sports heartbreak, was furious. The Sixers, a talented team, had crumbled under pressure, adding to the city's long history of sports disappointment.
"We Owe You One"
In the aftermath, an advertising campaign was born. "We Owe You One," a slogan that reflected the city's emotional response. It was a promise, an apology, and a declaration of intent. Erving, despite his misgivings, agreed to be a part of it, understanding the need to move forward.
This story, a microcosm of the larger battle for basketball's future, is a reminder of the power of sport to reflect and shape societal norms. It's a tale that deserves to be told and retold, a reminder of the impact of those who dare to challenge the status quo.
