PHILADELPHIA (AP) – Julius Erving has returned to the Philadelphia 76ers as a strategic adviser.

The Sixers made the announcement Friday at halftime of Game three of their playoff series against Chicago. Erving’s deal runs through 2015 and he will be available to the franchise on an as-needed basis.

He will counsel CEO Adam Aron and managing owner Joshua Harris. Erving will also take on a larger role as a goodwill ambassador for the team, meeting with fans and sponsors.

Erving played 11 seasons with the Sixers and led them to the 1983 NBA championship. His No. 6 was retired by the team and hangs in the Wells Fargo Center rafters.

He will continue to live in Atlanta.

Erving presented the game ball before tip.

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