This Day in Basketball History

1977 - Julius Erving plays in his first All-Star Game

Erving appears in his first NBA All-Star Game, earning Most Valuable Player honors after scoring 30 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. 

"Dr. J" played in five ABA All-Star Games and would appear in 10 more in the NBA, en route to a Hall of Fame career.

2005 - Karl Malone announces retirement

"The Mailman" retires at 41, after 18 seasons in the NBA. The 14-time All-Star and two-time Most Valuable Player would be inducted into the Hall of Fame five years later. His number (32) is now retired by the Utah Jazz. 

2013 - Hedo Turkoglu suspended for steroid use

The league suspends Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu 20 games for steroid use, prompting questions about the prevalence of performance-enhancing substances in the league.

Turkoglu denies doping intentionally, claiming he was given medication by a trainer to help him rehab from a shoulder injury.

Not exactly a proud moment for the Turkish NBA veteran, but neither was this:

Birthdays

1943 - Kendall Rhine
1944 - Jerry Pettway
1979 - Jerryl Sasser
1980 - Chris Jeffries
1981 - Luke Ridnour