Julius “Dr.J” Erving Flew Out Magic Johnson to Philadelphia and Convinced him to Dropout!

Magic Johnson is widely considered to be the greatest point guard in NBA history. The man enjoyed a stellar 13-year career in the NBA, winning it all.

A champion through and through, Magic knew he wanted to be an NBA superstar from a young age. He found inspiration in many a player, but idolized one man and one man only, Julius Erving.

Dr. J was a huge role model for Johnson. So, when he decided to leave college early, he wrang up his idol. Only to be told to put the phone down and come meet him in person at his home in Philadelphia. What a delightful surprise!

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Magic Johnson could not contain his joy when he was invited to Julius Erving’s house

In 1979, a young Magic Johnson was considering leaving his Michigan Spartans in order to go pro. It was a huge decision that could greatly impact his career.

With such a big decision in mind, Magic looked to one person to help him out. His idol, Julius Erving. The Hall of Famer recalled on Jimmy Kimmel Live how he was ecstatic when he managed to get Dr. J on the phone, only to be left overjoyed after the then-76ers star invited him to his home in Phillie!

“So I’m talking to him…so I said, “What do you think? I’m trying to decide whether to leave school or not,” and he says, “Let me do you one better! Instead of talking to you on the phone, Imma fly you to Phillie and you gonna stay with me!,” and I’m like, “What did you just say???”. And, so he said it again and I hung up the phone and I’m hollering and screaming, “Guess what everybody I’m going to Dr. J’s house!!!”. I’m going crazy! I couldn’t hold it! I’m running down the street telling everybody!”

It’s no surprise that Magic went gaga over the chance to meet his hero. Although, they would meet a while later, only this time in the NBA Finals.

Magic faced off against Dr. J in the NBA Finals during his rookie season

Going to Dr. J’s was a big deal for a young Magic Johnson. Little did he know he would meet his hero again shortly thereafter. Only this time in the 1980 NBA Finals.

Johnson came out on top. Becoming the only player in NBA history to win the finals MVP award as a rookie. One of one.

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