Fireside Chat with Dr. J

Funding Proposal for Community Event Featuring Julius W. Erving II (Dr. J)

We are seeking funds to support a unique and exciting opportunity for our community: a fireside chat with basketball legend Julius Winfield Erving II, famously known as Dr. J. This event will provide an intimate platform for the community to engage with one of the most iconic figures in the history of professional basketball.

Dr. J is widely recognized for his extraordinary contributions to both the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA). As the face of the ABA, he played a pivotal role in legitimizing the league before its eventual merger with the NBA in 1976. Over his remarkable 16-season career, Erving won three championships, four MVP awards, and three scoring titles, and became the only player to win MVP honors in both the ABA and NBA. His slam dunks from the free-throw line in contests remain iconic moments in basketball history.

Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993, Dr. J remains one of the top eight scorers in ABA/NBA history with a combined 30,026 points. His influence extends beyond his playing career, as he continues to inspire athletes and fans alike. His legacy as one of the greatest players and dunkers in basketball history, combined with his accolades—including being named one of the 40 most important athletes of all time by Sports Illustrated—makes him an ideal speaker for this community event.

This fireside chat will offer attendees a chance to hear firsthand from Dr. J about his life’s journey, his insights on leadership, teamwork, and resilience, and his perspective on the evolving role of sports in society. The event will foster meaningful dialogue, inspire young athletes, and strengthen community connections through shared experiences and stories of perseverance.

We believe this event, once again we are collaborating with TUSD’s Palo Verde High Magnet School, will have a lasting impact on our community, and with your support, we can make this extraordinary opportunity accessible to all. Funds will be used to cover event costs, including speaker fee, venue costs, accommodations including: food, driver, promotions, and ensuring the event remains open to the public. Any additional funds will be used to sustain the museum.