"His speed and quickness is a contradiction of how most people view white players" - Julius Erving on what Bobby Jones brought to the 76ers in 1981

bobby

Robert Clyde Jones, best known as Bobby Jones, was in a class of his own when he donned the Philadelphia 76ers uniform. He made a name for himself coming off the bench, but the 5th overall pick of the 1974 Draft did more than just provide spot minutes.

Jones etched his name as one of the best defensive players the NBA has ever seen. Bobby could also provide offense when needed, which is why Julius Erving had only good words for him when they played together from 1978 to 1986.

“So many of the things he does are difficult for the fans to understand or appreciate. His contributions can’t always be measured by what shows up in the stats. His speed and quickness is a contradiction of how most people view white players,” Julius said in February 1981 via the New York Times.

Jones changed the perception of white players

During those times, there was a stigma going around that white players moved slowly, but Bobby proved that notion wrong. However, ‘The Secretary of Defense’ admitted that it was not an easy transition.

“There are other ways to help a team win without doing a lot of scoring. Besides the usual terms of defense, passing, and rebounding, there are many helpful things that do not show in the stat sheets, like drawing a man over to you, so that your teammate gets free for the pass and shot,” Jones pointed out.

But what made the four-time All-Star unique was that he embraced any opportunity. Most importantly, Bobby was geared toward helping his teams win, and defense was his calling card.

Jones was a gem

Jones started his pro career with the Denver Nuggets in the ABA. In four seasons with the franchise, the eight-time All-Defensive First Team member averaged 14.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.9 blocks in 324 regular season games.

Concerned about his health, the Nuggets sent Jones to Philly in 1977. Although his numbers declined a bit, the 6-foot-9 player was able to find his place on the roster of head coach Billy Cunningham. He donned the 76ers jersey for eight seasons, averaging 10.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks in 617 contests.

Regardless of the diminished role, Jones got something most players long for. He is a legitimate NBA champion, being a member of the 1983 Sixers championship squad.