“Dr. J” Julius Erving (left) with fellow NBA legends Oscar Robinson and Bill Russell (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Despite taking part in the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) last six Finals—with eight total appearances overall—LeBron James has drawn flak for his subpar 3-wins-and-5-losses championship record.
Although his individual greatness on the court cannot be questioned, the NBA’s premier superstar remains hounded by pundits questioning his presumed lack of success on the league’s grandest stage.
Having won titles in both the NBA and ABA (American Basketball Association), Julius Erving put in his two cents on James’ record and what it means for his legacy.
The retired legend, best known as “Dr. J,” who experienced several Finals setbacks of his own as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, said that LeBron’s past shortcomings do not entirely fall on his shoulders.
“The game is a team sport, so individuals don’t win championships. Teams win championships,” he told FS1’s Undisputed. “You’re only as good as the team can take you. You can only go as far as the team can take you.”
Knowing first-hand how hard it is to contend for a championship on a consistent basis, the NBA Hall of Famer also lauded James’ efforts throughout his storied career.
“So, 3-5 doesn’t mean anything. I’m more impressed with eight Finals than I am with the record in the Finals,” he said.
“If he was 0-for-8 in Finals, that would still be an amazing achievement. That’s like going to eight Super Bowls.” Khristian Ibarrola /ra