The 25 Best Players in ABA History

Paging Dr. J.

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Complex Original

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Founded in 1967, the American Basketball Association was formed mainly for the purpose of merging with the larger, more well-established NBA. However, just because they were always planning on being acquired doesn't mean that there weren't more than a few notable names in the league. The ABA was full of interesting ideas and personalities, such as the Slam Dunk Contest, Marvin "Bad News" Barnes, and a lot of enthusiastically colored uniforms. Even their basketball was red, white, and blue. 

The league, feeling like they had nothing to lose, was much more fan-friendly and innovative than the NBA at the time. The ABA brought about the three-point line, they tried out a 30 second shot clock, and above all else they seemed to truly prize the athleticism that made their sport so unique. Of course with players like Dr. J and George Gervin, it would've been hard to contain such overwhelming talent. Thankfully, the league didn't get in anyone's way and, as a result, fans were given the opportunity to watch these athletes, some of whom have made our list of The 25 Best Players in ABA History. For any of you basketball junkies out there, this is a great chance to learn about an important part of pro basketball's timeline. Without the ABA, the NBA would look irreparably different. Check out the entire list and then let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. 

25. Freddie Lewis

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24. Maurice Lucas

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23. Doug Moe

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22. Charlie Scott

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21. Zelmo Beaty

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20. James Silas

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19. Louie Dampier

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18. Donnie Freeman

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17. Marvin Barnes

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16. Mack Calvin

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15. Warren Jabali

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14. Jimmy Jones

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13. George McGinnis

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12. Dan Issel

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11. Roger Brown

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10. Rick Barry

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9. Mel Daniels

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8. Spencer Haywood

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7. David Thompson

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6. Moses Malone

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5. Connie Hawkins

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4. Artis Gilmore

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3. George Gervin

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2. Billy Cunningham

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1. Julius "Dr. J" Erving

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