Jun 6, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Shaquille O'Neal looks on before the game between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks in game one of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images David Butler II-Imagn Images

Shaq Ranks Philadelphia 76ers Legend Among Top NBA Players Ever

Originally posted on Philadelphia 76ers on SI
By Kevin McCormick | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 11:15 AM ET

Throughout the franchise's history, the Philadelphia 76ers have had countless all-time greats suit up for them. Recently, Shaquille O'Neal gave high praise to arguably the best player to don a Sixers uniform.

Earlier this week, Shaq had a new show release on Netflix titled "Power Moves." During the first episode, the Hall of Fame center ranked his top ten players in NBA history. Originally, he had himself at No. 10. However, he opted to remove himself from consideration.

Starting off Shaq's official list was Sixers legend Julius Erving in the tenth spot. From there, he went on to name other all-time greats like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and his old LA Lakers running mate Kobe Bryant.

Shaq reveals his top 10 greatest NBA players of all time

Watch one of the all-time greats make his next play on Power Moves with Shaquille O'Neal premieres June 4. pic.twitter.com/yxonDJvM9m
— Netflix (@netflix) June 3, 2025

After spending the first five years of his career in the ABA, "Dr. J" made the jump to the NBA when he was acquired by the Sixers in 1976. He'd go on to spend the rest of his playing career with the franchise, cementing himself as one of the greatest small forwards in league history.

At his peak, Erving was one of the league's top stars. He was a perennial MVP candidate, winning the award three times in ABA and once with the Sixers (1981). However, his most notable achievement was delivering the Sixers a championship alongside Moses Malone in 1983.

When it comes to Sixers history, there are few players you can put ahead of Dr. J when it comes to the best ever. With his long list of accolades, he is more than deserving of an appearance on Shaq's list as well.

To this day, Erving still has close ties to the NBA. He is one of the league's most notable ambassadors and continues to have a great relationship with the Sixers. He can regularly be found at home games and championing the franchise's next generation of stars.

This article first appeared on Philadelphia 76ers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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