Ralph Sampson urges the NBA to change their logo after Julius Erving: “I wanted to be like Dr. J, Mike wanted to be like Dr. J”

NBA legend Ralph Sampson has called on the league to change its iconic logo, suggesting that it’s time to honour Julius Erving — better known as Dr. J — for his enormous influence on the game and generations of players. Speaking passionately about the impact of the former Philadelphia 76ers star, Sampson said that Erving’s style, grace and cultural significance make him a deserving figure to represent the NBA’s global identity.

Sampson, a four-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer, explained that Dr. J was a trailblazer whose influence extended beyond the court. According to him, Erving didn’t just play basketball — he defined what it meant to be both an athlete and an entertainer. His ability to combine athleticism with elegance transformed the sport into a spectacle and inspired countless young players to chase greatness.

“I wanted to be like Dr. J,” Sampson said, reflecting on his own basketball journey. “Mike wanted to be like Dr. J. Everybody did.” The statement highlighted how Erving’s legacy shaped not only Sampson’s generation but also future stars like Michael Jordan, who often cited Dr. J as one of his early inspirations. To Sampson, Erving was the original basketball icon who bridged the gap between eras and gave the game its creative soul.

The current NBA logo, which features the silhouette of Jerry West, has been in use since 1969. While West himself has expressed humility about being the model, the conversation around updating the logo has resurfaced in recent years, with fans and players suggesting that it should evolve to reflect the league’s diverse history. Sampson’s call adds new momentum to that discussion, especially coming from a respected veteran.

Sampson argued that a Dr. J-inspired logo would symbolise not only excellence but also evolution — representing how far the game has come since the 1970s. He praised Erving’s combination of skill, class and showmanship, noting that the high-flying style popularised by Dr. J laid the groundwork for the modern NBA’s fast-paced, highlight-driven culture. In Sampson’s words, “He made basketball beautiful. He made it global.”

Fans have echoed Sampson’s sentiment, flooding social media with mock designs and tributes envisioning a Dr. J-inspired logo. Many argue that Erving’s image, perhaps depicting one of his famous soaring dunks, would be a fitting representation of the sport’s artistry and creativity. The idea has reignited debates about whether the league should periodically update its symbol to honour different eras of influence.

Despite the growing support, the NBA has not indicated any plans to redesign its logo. League officials have long maintained that the current emblem is iconic and universally recognised. However, Sampson’s remarks have once again spotlighted the discussion about representation, diversity, and the heroes who defined the game for new generations of fans.

Whether or not the NBA takes action, Sampson’s message serves as a powerful reminder of Julius Erving’s enduring legacy. Dr. J remains one of the most respected figures in basketball history — a man whose style inspired legends, whose humility earned admiration, and whose impact still shapes the modern game. For many, a logo honouring him would not only celebrate his brilliance but also pay tribute to the creative spirit that continues to define the NBA.