By Edcel Panganiban July 05, 2024 06:47
Photo by James Silas, Byron Beck / Mark Junge/GettyImages
The American Basketball Association (ABA) began to play in 1967 as an alternative league, satisfying a different take on the game. With its breakneck speed of play, red, white, and blue basketballs, and the introduction of the three-point line, the league soon created an identity. It was able to lure the best players, such as future legends Julius "Dr. J" Erving, George Gervin, and Moses Malone.
The 4 ABA Squads That Paved the Way
Denver Nuggets
- NBA Year: ABA-NBA merger (1976)
- Key Players: Dan Issel
- Coaches: Larry Brown, Donnie Walsh
The Nuggets are one team that, after their consolidation with the NBA, had an impressive performance. The team converted, keeping them in the competitive balance while establishing a historic cornerstone of NBA lore.
Indiana Pacers
- NBA Debut: 1976 with the Merger of ABA/ NBA
- Key Players: George McGinnis, Mel Daniels
- Coaches: Slick Leonard
The Pacers transferred flawlessly from the ABA, maintaining their rivalry with the Kentucky Colonels to boot. They were still a tough team to play against, and they have become an unnecessary problem for the league.
New York Nets
- NBA Debut: After ABA-NBA merger (1976)
- Key Players: Julius Erving
- Coaches: Kevin Loughery, Larry Brown
The Nets made a smooth transition to the NBA, continued their successful run of play, and helped shape the future direction of pro basketball, all under the responsible guidance of superstar Julius Erving.
San Antonio Spurs
- Years in NBA: After the ABA/NBA merger (1976)
- Key Players: George Gervin
- Key Coaches: Doug Moe
With the help of their success in an ailing ABA, the Spurs easily adjusted to life with established teams when they made it into the NBA as well.
Impact of the ABA-NBA Merger
The ABA-NBA merger changed professional basketball in the United States. The injection of ABA talent comprising the four teams that merged with the NBA- raised standards in play all around, providing a more vivid and competitive nexus in this evolving pro basketball league.
Impact on the way Basketball is Played
The ABA introduced new features to the NBA, perhaps most notably the three-point line, which is an integral part of basketball today. The ABA also influenced the NBA by populating it with more players of a striking, high-flying style that eventually became its signature.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
The three-point line, dunk contests, and a style of play that highlights athletic prowess all have their origins in the ABA. These teams that merged into the NBA are now some of the most important and prevailing parts to become associated within its history.
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