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American Basketball Association (2000–present)
American Basketball Association (2000–present)
American Basketball Association (2000–present)
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American Basketball Association
FormerlyABA 2000
SportBasketball
Founded1999; 26 years ago (1999)
First season2000–01
CEOJoe Newman
MottoMore than just a game
CountriesUnited States
HeadquartersIndianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
Most recent
champion		Chicago Fury (2025)
Most titlesJacksonville Giants (7)
BroadcastersABAGALE and SFBN
Official websiteABA Basketball

The American Basketball Association (ABA) is an American semi-professional men's basketball minor league that was founded in 1999.

ABA teams are based in the United States, with one traveling team from Japan. The league previously had international teams based in Canada, China and Mexico. League management infamously maintains low requirements for franchise ownership, and hundreds of ABA teams have either folded or defected to rival leagues.

The league licenses its name and use of ABA trademarks from the National Basketball Association, which absorbed the American Basketball Association (1967–1976) during the ABA–NBA merger. The Women's American Basketball Association has operated as a sister league to the ABA since 2017.

History

[edit]

Launch and suspension, 1999–2002

[edit]
See also: 2000–01 ABA season and 2001–02 ABA season
Darryl Dawkins, head coach of the Tampa Bay ThunderDawgs during their 2000–01 season.

The league was originally co-founded by Dick Tinkham and Joe Newman in 1999 as ABA 2000.[1] Tinkham had previously co-founded the Indiana Pacers in the original American Basketball Association, and Newman had been an advertising executive for the Pacers.[2] The National Basketball Association (NBA), owner of the ABA trademark after absorbing many of the original league's teams, sued Tinkham and Newman in December 1999.[3] The lawsuit was unsuccessful since the NBA had failed to actively use the ABA trademark, and the new league entered an agreement with the NBA to license the name for $50,000.[4]

The league began its inaugural 2000–01 season with eight teams: the Chicago Skyliners, Detroit Dogs, Indiana Legends, Kansas City Knights, Los Angeles Stars, Memphis Houn'Dawgs, San Diego Wildfire and Tampa Bay ThunderDawgs. Joe Newman founded the Indiana Legends to replace the Jacksonville Jackals, who were removed from the league after failing to secure a venue.[5] Mark Hamister purchased the rights to a Buffalo franchise for $75,000, but was also unable to secure a venue.[6][7] A proposed merger with the International Basketball League fell through in December 2000, which would have allowed the inaugural season to begin with additional teams.[8]

To attract fans, the ABA encouraged its teams to fill rosters with former NBA players and past college basketball stars that had local ties.[9][10] Former NBA champion and Florida native Darryl Dawkins was recruited as the first head coach of the Tampa Bay ThunderDawgs.[11]

The 2001–02 ABA season saw only three teams return from the inaugural season, with the Chicago Skyliners, Los Angeles Stars, Memphis Houn'Dawgs, San Diego Wildfire and Tampa Bay ThunderDawgs replaced by the Kentucky Pro Cats, Las Vegas Slam, Phoenix Eclipse and Southern California Surf.

Joe Newman folded the Indiana Legends after he was sued by eight former players in August 2002 for failing to pay their salaries.[12] Newman had claimed $1 million in losses over two seasons of ownership.[13]

The 2002–03 season was not played, as the league suspended operations for reorganization.[14] Jim Clark, owner of the Kansas City Knights, was named league president and COO in November 2002.[15]

Restructuring and defections, 2003–2005

[edit]
See also: 2003–04 ABA season, 2004–05 ABA season, and 2005–06 ABA season
Sun Yue, two-time ABA All-Star who played for the Beijing Aoshen Olympians from 2005 to 2008.

The league resumed play with seven teams for the 2003–04 season. The returning Kansas City Knights were joined by the Fresno Heatwave, Jersey Squires, Las Vegas Rattlers, Juárez Gallos de Pelea, Long Beach Jam and Tijuana Dragons. Dennis Rodman brought national attention to the league when he signed with the Long Beach Jam, leading them to an ABA title in their first season.[16]

The 2004–05 season saw franchise fees lowered from $50,000 to $10,000, and the bond requirement removed in order to attract new teams.[17] Teams were subsequently organized into regional groups to facilitate interest and reduce travel costs, with 37 clubs competing that season in three divisions. The Arkansas RimRockers won the 2004–05 ABA title in their first year of play, but then left with the Long Beach Jam to join the rival NBA Development League.

The ABA welcomed the Beijing Aoshen Olympians beginning with the 2005–06 season, a club which had been banned from the Chinese Basketball League after refusing to allow star prospect Sun Yue to play for the Chinese national team. The Olympians played their home games in Maywood, California.[18] CCTV-5 in China broadcast the team's games, where they were watched by an average of 15 million people.[19]

Following the 2005–06 season in which many teams failed to complete their full schedules and became insolvent, the Charlotte Krunk, Florida Pit Bulls, Indiana Alley Cats, Pittsburgh Xplosion, San Jose Skyrockets and SoCal Legends left to join the rival Continental Basketball Association.

Failed coup and formation of PBL, 2006–2008

[edit]
See also: 2006–07 ABA season and 2007–08 ABA season

My idea of success and Newman's differ. I'd rather have fewer teams, that are stable and last, as opposed to having tons that continue to fold. It's not the amount of teams that a league has, it's the amount that finish.[20]

—Tom Doyle, Maryland Nighthawks

In preparation for the league's initial public offering (ABKB), former NBA player John Salley was named league commissioner and Maryland Nighthawks owner Tom Doyle was named league COO in September 2006.[21] Cost for new franchises was subsequently raised to $20,000 for the 2006–07 season.[22] Sports Illustrated writer Alexander Wolff launched the Vermont Frost Heaves, regularly penning articles in the publication about his team's inaugural campaign.

John Salley and Tom Doyle attempted a boardroom coup on behalf of shareholders, with ABA's Board of Directors voting to remove Joe Newman as CEO on January 31, 2007.[23] Newman sued Salley and Doyle, leading to a settlement in which he kept his job and forced their resignations from the league.[24]

The 2006–07 season concluded with the defending champion Rochester Razorsharks withdrawing from the league after they asked to reschedule a playoff game against the Wilmington Sea Dawgs, but were denied and told to forfeit.[25] Following this incident, the Hammond Rollers, Jacksonville Jam, Maryland Nighthawks, Quad City Riverhawks and Wilmington Sea Dawgs joined the Razorsharks in forming the Premier Basketball League (PBL).

Following the 2007–08 season, the reigning champion Vermont Frost Heaves left for the Premier Basketball League along with the Halifax Rainmen, Manchester Millrats and Quebec Kebs.[26]

Quentin Townsend, owner of the Atlanta Vision, was named league President and COO in April 2008.[27] He was later removed from those positions after being arrested in November 2008 for defrauding investors in a scheme to acquire an NBA Development League franchise.[28]

CBA absorption and continued instability, 2008–2013

[edit]
See also: 2008–09 ABA season, 2009–10 ABA season, 2010–11 ABA season, 2011–12 ABA season, and 2012–13 ABA season
Chris Beard coaching the South Carolina Warriors, who finished their 2011–12 regular season undefeated.

At the start of the 2008–09 season, over 200 teams had folded since the league's inception.[29]

The 2008–09 season saw the Southeast Texas Mustangs franchise join the league after leaving the struggling Continental Basketball Association. The ABA attempted interleague play with the four remaining CBA teams, but their league folded mid-season.[30]

NBA scouts stopped attending the league's games in January 2009, citing the amount of cancelled and forfeited contests.[31]

Several teams folded during the 2009–10 season, including the entire Pacific Northwest Division. The San Francisco Rumble forfeited their playoff game against the Southeast Texas Mavericks, as they could not afford to travel for the contest.[32]

Gilas Pilipinas, the Philippine national basketball team, competed in a series of exhibitions against ABA teams including the Clayton Showtime, Los Angeles Slam, Riverside Rainmakers, San Diego Surf and the West Coast All-Stars.[33] This April 2010 series was referred to as the ABA Friendship Games.

Dick Packer was named league President and COO in April 2010.[34]

After winning their second consecutive championship in 2010–11, the Southeast Texas Mavericks publicly opined that the ABA did not have adequate competition, and they left with intentions of joining the NBA Development League.[35] However, their application to join the NBA Development League was denied, and the franchise sat out the 2011–12 and 2012–13 seasons. Consecutive titles were won by the Jacksonville Giants in their absence, with championship wins over the previously undefeated South Carolina Warriors in 2011–12 and North Dallas Vandals in 2012–13.[36] The team returned to the ABA for 2013–14 as the Shreveport-Bossier Mavericks, going undefeated and winning the league title in a perfect season.[37]

Management change and ESPN3 deal, 2014–2016

[edit]
See also: 2013–14 ABA season, 2014–15 ABA season, and 2015–16 ABA season
Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, which hosted the largest crowd in ABA history on January 16, 2016.

At the conclusion of the 2013–14 season, over 350 franchises had folded since the league's inception.[38]

Former Arizona Scorpions owner Ron Tilley replaced Joe Newman as league President and CEO following Newman's retirement in July 2014.[39]

The league signed a two-year streaming deal with ESPN3 in August 2014 to broadcast regular season and playoff games beginning with the 2014–15 season.[40]

After completing a perfect season for the second time in 2014–15 and winning their fourth championship, the Shreveport-Bossier Mavericks left the ABA to join the Premier Basketball League.[41]

Joe Newman returned to the role of league President and CEO beginning with the 2015–16 season.

The Jacksonville Giants drew the league's all-time record crowd of 8,987 for their 100–93 victory over the previously unbeaten Chicago Steam at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena on January 16, 2016.[42] It had been reported the week prior that the Orlando Magic was considering adopting the Giants as their NBA Development League affiliate, although later in the year they instead moved their existing affiliate Erie BayHawks to Lakeland, Florida.[43][44]

WABA launch and addition of play-in tournament, 2017–present

[edit]
The Indiana Lyons hosting the Indiana Legends on February 24, 2024.

A sister league, the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA), was launched in 2017.[45] Jersey Express owner Marsha Blount was named the league's President and CEO.[46]

The 2017–18 season saw franchise fees lowered to $2,500.[47]

League co-founder Dick Tinkham died of muscular dystrophy in October 2018.[48]

The 2019–20 season was ended prematurely and the playoffs cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[49]

The undefeated Jacksonville Giants captured their seventh and final championship in 2020–21, concluding the team's first perfect season and third in ABA history.[50]

A play-in tournament was implemented beginning with the 2021–22 season to determine which teams would advance to the divisional round of the playoffs.[51]

Following elimination from the 2021–22 playoffs by the Steel City Yellow Jackets, the Jacksonville Giants ceased operations.[52]

The Burning River Buckets and Indiana Lyons were declared co-champions of the 2022–23 season after storm damage rendered the venue for their championship game unplayable.[53]

Rule changes

[edit]
ABA official.

The league employs a number of unconventional rules that are unique to the league:[54]

  • Four-point field goal: Shots made from behind the half-court division line are credited as 4 points.
  • 3D rule: If a team commits a backcourt violation or turns the ball over in the backcourt, any field goal scored by the opposing team on the ensuing possession shall be awarded an additional point (2-point shots are credited as 3 points, 3-point shots are credited as 4 points, 4-point half-court shots are credited as 5 points). If a player is fouled on their unsuccessful shot attempt while the 3D rule is in effect, they shall receive free throws corresponding with the point value of a successful field goal.
  • Basket interference rule: Once the ball hits the rim, any play for the ball by a defender will not be considered goaltending.
  • 7 second rule: Each team has seven seconds to bring the ball from backcourt to frontcourt before a backcourt violation is called. If either team is granted a timeout or the ball deflects out of bounds, the count does not reset.
  • Seventh foul rule: A player who has committed seven fouls during regulation will be removed from the game and replaced by a bench player. Players who fouled out during regulation will be allowed back into the game for overtime.
  • 3–10 & Out: Overtime begins with a single 3-minute period. If the score is still tied, a second untimed overtime period shall commence, and the first team to reach 10 points wins the game.
  • 13th man rule: The home team is allowed one additional player to dress for regular season games beyond their normal 12-man squad. This traditionally is a role filled by celebrities and dignitaries as publicity stunts, and such players are not authorized to play an entire game.

Teams

[edit]
Vermont Frost Heaves, winners of the 2006–07 and 2007–08 league championship.

123 teams completed at least one game during the 2024–25 season.[55]

The league's oldest surviving franchises are the Jersey Express (est. 2005), Georgia Gwizzlies (est. 2007), Steel City Yellow Jackets (est. 2014), and Indiana Lyons (est. 2017).

Defunct

[edit]
Main article: List of former American Basketball Association (2000–present) teams

Franchises that left the ABA but still compete elsewhere include the Detroit Panthers (Maximum Basketball League), Motor City Cruise (NBA G League), Newfoundland Rogues (Basketball Super League), and Rochester Kingz (The Basketball League).

Championship results

[edit]
For complete playoff results of past ABA seasons, see American Basketball Association (2000–present) playoff results.
Year Champion Runner-up Result Host arena Host city Game MVP Ref
2000–01 Detroit Dogs Chicago Skyliners 107–91 Cox Pavilion Paradise, Nevada Gee Gervin / Ndongo N'Diaye [56]
2001–02 Kansas City Knights Southern California Surf 118–113 Kemper Arena Kansas City, Missouri Pete Mickeal [57]
2002–03 Not held due to league shutdown.
2003–04 Long Beach Jam Kansas City Knights 126–123 Walter Pyramid Long Beach, California [58]
2004–05 Arkansas RimRockers Bellevue Blackhawks 118–103 Alltel Arena North Little Rock, Arkansas Kareem Reid [59]
2005–06 Rochester Razorsharks SoCal Legends 117–114 Blue Cross Arena Rochester, New York Chris Carrawell [60]
2006–07 Vermont Frost Heaves Texas Tycoons 143–95 Barre Auditorium Barre, Vermont [61]
2007–08 Vermont Frost Heaves San Diego Wildcats 87–84 Pavillon de la Jeunesse Quebec City, Quebec, Canada Dwuan Rice [62]
2008–09 Kentucky Bisons Maywood Buzz 127–120 Nashville Municipal Auditorium Nashville, Tennessee Michael James [63]
2009–10 Southeast Texas Mavericks Kentucky Bisons 96–99, 104–83, 85–76 Parker Multipurpose Center Port Arthur, Texas Josh Pace [64]
2010–11 Southeast Texas Mavericks Gulf Coast Flash 114–97, 109–85 Nutty Jerry's Entertainment Complex PJ Couisnard [65]
2011–12 Jacksonville Giants South Carolina Warriors 106–101, 100–91 Eckerd College St. Petersburg, Florida Jermaine Bell [66]
2012–13 Jacksonville Giants North Dallas Vandals 85–84, 110–109 Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena Jacksonville, Florida Tony Hooper [67]
2013–14 Shreveport-Bossier Mavericks Jacksonville Giants 136–127, 105–103 Hirsch Memorial Coliseum Shreveport, Louisiana Ed Horton [68]
2014–15 Shreveport-Bossier Mavericks Miami Midnites 109–81, 116–91 Hirsch Memorial Coliseum Shreveport, Louisiana PJ Couisnard [69]
2015–16 Jacksonville Giants Windy City Groove 92–80, 93–90 Laredo Energy Arena Laredo, Texas Maurice Mickens [70]
2016–17 Jacksonville Giants Windy City Groove 120–102 Woodlawn High School Baltimore, Maryland Maurice Mickens [71]
2017–18 Jacksonville Giants Austin Bats 119–114 Lehman High School Kyle, Texas Bernard Nugent [72]
2018–19 Jacksonville Giants South Florida Gold 116–112 St. Louis College of Pharmacy Gymnasium St. Louis, Missouri Maurice Mickens [73]
2019–20 Not held due to COVID-19 pandemic.
2020–21 Jacksonville Giants Chicago Fury 111–108 James J. Eagan Center Florissant, Missouri Miguel Paul [74]
2021–22 Steel City Yellow Jackets Team Trouble 123–118 St. Frances Academy Baltimore, Maryland Stephen Vorum [75]
2022–23 Not held due to unplayable conditions. Burning River Buckets and Indiana Lyons declared co-champions.
2023–24 Chicago Fury Mississippi Silverbacks 126–123 (OT) Spring Hill College Mobile, Alabama Khapri Alston [76]
2024–25 Chicago Fury Silicon Valley Panthers 131–122 St. Louis Community College–Forest Park St. Louis, Missouri Jordan Booker [77]

All-Star Game results

[edit]
East (6 wins) West (4 wins) South (2 wins) Kansas City Knights (1 win) Team Dr. J (1 win)
Year Result Host arena Host city Game MVP Ref
2001 Not held.
2002 Kansas City Knights 161, ABA All-Stars 138 Kemper Arena Kansas City, Missouri Maurice Carter, Kansas City Knights [78]
2003 Not held due to league shutdown.
2004 Not held.
2005 West 163, East 149 Las Vegas Sports Center Las Vegas, Nevada Lou Kelly, Las Vegas Rattlers [79]
2006 East 129, West 127 BankAtlantic Center Sunrise, Florida Armen Gilliam, Pittsburgh Xplosion [80]
2007 West 138, East 123 Halifax Metro Centre Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Billy Knight, Atlanta Vision [81]
2008 East 161, West 140 Barre Auditorium Barre, Vermont Anthony Anderson, Manchester Millrats [82]
2009 West, East Nashville Municipal Auditorium Nashville, Tennessee Keith Simpson, Texas Fuel [83]
2010 ABA West All-Stars vs. Gilas Pilipinas Hangar Athletic Xchange Los Angeles, California [84]
2011 East 123, West 122 Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena Jacksonville, Florida Kayode Ayeni, Jersey Express [85]
2012 Red vs. White vs. Blue (round-robin tournament) Eckerd College St. Petersburg, Florida [86][87]
2013 East 198, West 141 South Suburban College South Holland, Illinois Maurice Mickens, Memphis Bluff City Reign
2014 No reported result. Grandview Christian School Grandview, Missouri
2015 South 138, North 131 Kroc Center South Bend, Indiana [88]
2016 Team Dr. J 140, Team Gervin 139 St. Frances Academy Baltimore, Maryland Terry Hosley, DMV Warriors [89]
2017 South, North Big Ben's Home Court Richmond, Virginia Christopher Cromartie, South Florida Gold
2018 No reported result. Giving Heart Community Center Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Antonio Reddic, Steel City Yellow Jackets [90]
2019 No reported result. Giving Heart Community Center Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2020 Not held due to COVID-19 pandemic.
2021 East 210, West 165 James J. Eagan Center Florissant, Missouri [91]
2022 East vs. West [92]
2023 East 169, West 151 Jefferson College Hillsboro, Missouri Dominique Jones, Garden State Warriors [93]
2024 West 129, East 122 Spring Hill College Mobile, Alabama David Jones, St. Louis Spirits [94]
2025 Team Presley 210, Team Coley 183 St. Louis Community College–Forest Park St. Louis, Missouri Rodney Gaston, Windy City Inferno

Notable alumni

[edit]
* Elected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Players

[edit]

USA:

Asia:

Africa:

Americas:

Canada

Europe:

Oceania:

Coaches

[edit]

USA:

Asia:

Americas:

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

American Basketball Association (2000–present)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The (ABA) is a men's semi-professional basketball league in the United States, founded in 1999 by Joe Newman and Richard Tinkham and launched in 2000 under license from the (NBA) as a revival of the original ABA that operated from 1967 to 1976 before merging with the NBA. It emphasizes high-scoring, innovative through unique rules such as four 12-minute quarters, a seven-second half-court violation that triggers the "3D rule" to award extra points on field goals (two-pointers count as three, three-pointers as four), and seven fouls required to foul out. Since its relaunch, the ABA has expanded rapidly into what it claims is the world's largest professional sports league, with over 170 teams nationwide as of 2025, a season structure running from November to April, and a strong focus on diverse ownership—approximately 70% African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, or women-led. The league provides developmental opportunities for hundreds of players annually, many of whom advance to higher levels of professional basketball, while hosting regional divisions, an All-Star Game, and an annual national championship tournament. Notable franchises include the Jacksonville Giants, seven-time national champions (2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021), and the Chicago Fury, back-to-back champions in 2024 and 2025. Through affordable ticketing, community engagement, and initiatives like the Global Black History Museum launched in 2024, the ABA continues to foster basketball's growth at the semi-professional level while honoring its innovative legacy.

Overview

Founding and Mission

The (ABA) was founded in 1999 by entrepreneur Joe Newman and longtime basketball executive Richard P. Tinkham as a semi-professional men's aimed at serving as a developmental pipeline for talent and delivering entertaining, accessible games to fans. Tinkham, who had co-owned the during the original ABA's existence from 1967 to 1976, sought to revive the spirit of that innovative era while addressing gaps in professional basketball opportunities for emerging players. The league positioned itself as a minor league alternative to the NBA, focusing on nurturing athletes who could eventually transition to higher levels of competition. Central to the ABA's mission was providing high-quality professional basketball at affordable ticket prices, thereby broadening access to the sport in communities often overlooked by major leagues, while also creating off-court opportunities such as business and community engagement for players and owners. Newman emphasized this ethos, stating, “We are pleased to provide high quality professional basketball at affordable prices – and to provide thousands of opportunities on and off the court each year.” The league's goals included fostering diversity in ownership and participation, with a reported 70% of teams owned by African-American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American individuals, or women, underscoring a commitment to inclusivity in professional sports. This approach distinguished the modern ABA as more than a competitive entity, prioritizing community impact and economic accessibility over elite-level exclusivity. The adoption of the ABA name was intentional, designed to evoke the original league's reputation for bold innovations, such as the three-point shot and fast-paced play, which had influenced the NBA after their 1976 merger. The modern iteration licensed the ABA trademarks directly from the NBA, establishing an early partnership that facilitated player development pathways and ensured operational harmony between the leagues. Accompanying this revival was the motto "More than just a game," which encapsulated the emphasis on basketball as a vehicle for , personal growth, and cultural engagement beyond mere athletic competition. In November 2000, the ABA merged with the International Basketball League (IBL), expanding to twelve teams. The inaugural 2000–01 season launched on December 26, 2000, with twelve teams competing in a 56-game schedule, strategically placed in regional markets underserved by the NBA to maximize local fan engagement and talent scouting. This structure allowed the league to test its model in mid-sized cities, laying the groundwork for expansion while serving as a proving ground for players seeking NBA attention.

Governance and Operations

The (ABA) has operated under a licensing agreement with the (NBA) since its relaunch in 2000, which grants the ABA rights to use the league's name and trademarks while fostering collaboration on player development, including opportunities for NBA teams to loan players to ABA rosters for skill enhancement and exposure. This partnership has enabled the ABA to position itself as a developmental feeder league, emphasizing talent pipelines without direct competition, and has been maintained in harmony for over two decades to support mutual growth in professional . Central to the ABA's governance is CEO Joe Newman, who co-founded the league in 1999 alongside Richard P. Tinkham and has led operations since 2000, handling critical functions such as approving new team franchises, coordinating schedules, and ensuring compliance with league standards across its semi-professional structure. Newman's oversight extends to strategic decisions that maintain the league's focus on accessible, community-oriented , including reductions in franchise fees and player payroll in 2018 to address operational costs. The league maintains its headquarters in , , where Newman is based, facilitating close ties to basketball heritage through entities like the ' legacy. As a semi-professional league, the ABA structures its operations around part-time player participation, with average salaries ranging from $100 to $500 per game, which supports athletes balancing professional aspirations with community involvement and other employment. This model underscores the league's emphasis on development over high-stakes compensation, allowing for diverse rosters that include recent graduates and international talent. Operational aspects, including media distribution and , are supported through affiliations with organizations like Abagale Unlimited, which handles promotional content and global to enhance the league's . The inclusion of international elements, such as traveling teams and affiliates, further integrates the ABA into a broader global basketball ecosystem, promoting cross-cultural exchanges since the .

History

Launch and Early Suspension (1999–2002)

The (ABA) was founded in 1999 by Indianapolis advertising executive Joe Newman and Richard P. Tinkham, a co-founder of the original ABA (1967–1976) and the , as a revival intended to recapture the innovative and entertaining style of the earlier league. Tinkham's involvement brought historical ties to professional , while Newman's business background focused on building a sustainable minor professional circuit outside the NBA's shadow. During the planning phase that year, the league recruited initial franchises in key markets, including for the Indiana Legends (owned by Newman), California for the Stars, and among other East Coast locations, aiming for a mix of established and emerging basketball hotbeds to ensure geographic diversity and fan appeal. The ABA launched its inaugural 2000–01 season in November 2000 with eight teams competing in a round-robin format, where each franchise played a 40- to 50-game schedule against the others, divided loosely into Eastern and Western conferences for competitive balance. The teams included the Chicago Skyliners, Detroit Dogs, Indiana Legends, Kansas City Knights, Los Angeles Stars, Memphis Houn'Dawgs, San Diego Wildfire, and Tampa Bay ThunderDawgs, with rosters featuring a blend of former NBA players, international talent, and up-and-coming prospects to emphasize high-scoring, fan-friendly play. The regular season ran through March 2001, culminating in single-elimination playoffs that highlighted the league's emphasis on parity and excitement, though attendance varied widely across venues due to the teams' placement in mid-sized arenas. In the playoffs, the fourth-seeded Detroit Dogs advanced to the finals by defeating the Indiana Legends 119-105 in the semifinals, setting up a matchup against the top-seeded Chicago Skyliners, who had edged the Kansas City Knights 106-105. On March 31, 2001, at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, the Dogs claimed the inaugural ABA championship with a decisive 107-91 victory over the Skyliners, led by standout performances from players like Willie Redden and coached by George Gervin. Despite this successful debut, the league encountered significant financial and logistical hurdles, including inconsistent sponsorship support and operational costs that strained team owners amid modest gate receipts. These issues prompted the suspension of the 2002–03 season for reorganization, allowing the ABA to restructure its model and lower franchise fees to foster long-term viability.

Restructuring and Internal Conflicts (2003–2008)

Following the league's suspension, the ABA underwent significant reorganization and resumed operations in the 2003–04 season. The league featured seven teams, including the Long Beach Jam, Kansas City Knights, Juarez Galaxy, Las Vegas Rattlers, Jersey Squires, Tijuana Dragons, and Fresno Heatwave. To attract attention and boost visibility, the league incorporated celebrity involvement, most notably with former NBA star Dennis Rodman signing with the Long Beach Jam in December 2003. Rodman, a five-time NBA champion known for his rebounding prowess, debuted with the Jam in January 2004, playing three games during the regular season and contributing to the team's playoff run. The Jam, leveraging Rodman's presence, advanced to the championship game and defeated the Kansas City Knights 126–123 on March 9, 2004, securing the league's title in its first full season post-suspension. The 2004–05 season marked further growth through expansion, with new franchises introduced in (South Florida Gold) and (Las Vegas Rattlers continuing from the prior year, but with reinforced rosters). Rodman returned to for additional games early in the season, providing continued celebrity draw amid the league's push to stabilize attendance and media interest. However, did not repeat as champions; the RimRockers claimed the title that year. These expansions aimed to broaden the league's geographic footprint, but financial and operational challenges began to surface, setting the stage for internal tensions. Internal conflicts escalated in 2006 when former NBA player and league president Tom Doyle, owner of the Maryland Nighthawks, attempted a boardroom coup to remove CEO Joe Newman. The effort, backed by some shareholders, succeeded temporarily in January 2007 when the ABA Board of Directors voted to oust Newman. However, Newman challenged the decision in court, prevailing in legal battles that reinstated him and highlighted governance fractures within the league. These disputes contributed to instability, exacerbating issues with franchise management and financial transparency. The period's tensions culminated in significant defections between 2006 and 2008, as dissatisfaction with leadership and operations led to the formation of the rival (PBL) in 2008. Six ABA teams, including the Buffalo Silverbacks, defected to the new league, which was established by former ABA franchises seeking better structure and support. This exodus reduced the ABA's active roster to approximately 10 teams by the end of the 2007–08 season, underscoring the era's volatility and prompting further management shifts.

Absorption, Instability, and Management Shifts (2008–2016)

In 2008, the absorbed several franchises from the financially struggling , which folded mid-season after attempting with the ABA. This move briefly expanded the ABA to 18 teams, but the league soon faced severe instability amid the , resulting in over 200 team folds by 2013 as economic pressures forced many franchises to cease operations. In December 2009, Singapore-based Filipino international financier Paul Monozca was appointed as vice chairman of ABA Global and joined the league’s management team to support its worldwide expansion efforts. Despite the turmoil, the Jacksonville Giants emerged as a dominant force, securing consecutive ABA championships in 2012 and 2013 by defeating the San Diego Sol and North Dallas Vandals, respectively. The Giants continued their success by winning the 2016 title against the Windy City Groove, contributing to their record of three championships during this period and establishing them as the league's most successful franchise to date. Management shifts marked a pivotal transition in 2014, when longtime CEO Joe Newman retired after 15 years, temporarily replaced by Ron Tilley, former owner of the Arizona Scorpions, amid ongoing financial disputes within the league. Newman was reinstated later that year, restoring continuity to leadership as the ABA navigated its challenges. The league gained greater visibility through a multi-year broadcasting agreement with announced in 2014, which covered select regular-season and playoff games starting in the 2014–15 season and continuing into 2015–16, allowing national exposure for up to 40 games annually. This deal coincided with rising attendance, culminating in a record 8,987 fans at a 2016 Jacksonville Giants home game during "Faith and Family Night," the highest regular-season crowd in ABA history at the time.

Expansion, Women's League, and Recent Developments (2017–present)

Following the period of instability in the mid-2010s, the (ABA) experienced significant growth starting in 2017, expanding its footprint through new franchises and international outreach. By the 2021–22 season, the league had grown to over 170 teams across multiple regions in the United States, marking a record expansion that reflected increased interest in semi-professional basketball as a developmental pathway. This surge continued, with the addition of international affiliates in countries such as , , , the , , and others through initiatives like ABA Global Games, which incorporated teams from , , the , and to foster global competition and talent exchange. Under its global strategy, ABA Global partnered with the National Intercollegiate Forum for Athletes (NIFA), establishing programs for international exposure and athlete development, including scouting for the ABA Global Draft and forming national teams such as from the Philippines to compete in ABA tournaments. The league's structure emphasized regional divisions and conferences to accommodate this scale, positioning the ABA as the largest league in the U.S. by team count. A key aspect of this expansion was the launch of the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA) in 2017 as a sister league under the ABA umbrella, providing shared resources such as scheduling, marketing, and player development programs to promote gender equity in professional . Founded by Marsha Blount, the WABA debuted with seven teams and operated as a summer league to complement the men's season, offering opportunities for female athletes post-college or overseas. Integration with the ABA allowed for joint events and , culminating in initiatives like the 2022 WABA season tip-off that celebrated the 50th anniversary of . Further growth included the 2023 launch of WABA West to expand westward, enhancing the overall ecosystem for women's within the ABA framework. To heighten competitiveness amid rapid expansion, the ABA introduced a play-in during the 2021–22 season, where the top non-playoff qualifiers from each region competed in additional games to secure the final spots in the Final Eight . This format, inspired by similar structures in major leagues, ensured broader participation and intense matchups, with examples including the Austin Bats and Team Trouble advancing through play-in rounds in 2022. Recent championships highlighted the league's vibrancy: the 2022–23 season ended without a decisive final due to a that rendered the St. Louis venue unplayable, leading to co-champions Indiana Lyons and Burning River Buckets in a historic first for the ABA. The Chicago Fury then claimed back-to-back titles, defeating the Mississippi Miracles in double overtime for the 2023–24 championship and maintaining an undefeated run into the 2024–25 season. In parallel with these developments, the ABA reinforced its role as a feeder system for higher-level , partnering with the NBA since its 2000 relaunch to develop talent that transitions to the G League and beyond. Numerous have advanced through ABA exposure, gaining visibility for contracts in the NBA's developmental affiliate, where the league's emphasis on skill-building and international play prepares players for professional demands. Complementing this, the ABA launched the Global Black History Museum in , housed in , and officially inaugurated in May 2025 under leaders Dr. Jatai Gonder and Dr. Clyde Rivers, to preserve and educate on African American contributions to and culture. By the 2024–25 season, the league supported over 150 teams worldwide, underscoring its evolution into a stable, inclusive platform for emerging athletes.

League Format and Rules

Season and Playoff Structure

The regular season of the (ABA) spans from November to April, encompassing both regular-season games and , with teams typically scheduled for 20 or more games in certain conferences during the regular portion, though this varies. This condensed schedule reflects the league's semi-professional status, prioritizing weekend matchups—often on Saturdays—to align with players' primary occupations and reduce logistical burdens. To further control costs in a minor league context, the ABA organizes its teams into regional structures, including East and West regions, conferences such as the Alpha Conference, and intra-conference divisions like Blue and Red, enabling geographically clustered scheduling that limits long-distance travel. Postseason qualification relies on division and regional standings, where the highest-performing teams advance based on win-loss records. The feature a multi-stage format beginning with a play-in , involving up to 64 teams in single-elimination games played over successive weekends to determine participants for the later rounds. Winners from these play-in contests progress to the Final Eight, a centralized single-elimination bracket typically hosted in a single venue, such as in early April (as of 2025), which narrows the field through quarterfinals, semifinals, and a championship final. The ABA Finals are decided in a best-of-three series, emphasizing competitive intensity while maintaining the league's resource-conscious approach. This structure integrates loosely with the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA), the ABA's affiliated women's league, which runs a separate summer schedule from July onward to prevent calendar conflicts and allow shared organizational resources without overlapping competitions.

Unique Rules and Innovations

The (ABA), relaunched in 2000, introduced several distinctive rules to enhance game excitement, promote fast-paced play, and differentiate itself from established leagues like the NBA. These innovations emphasize offensive opportunities and rapid transitions, drawing inspiration from the original ABA's flair while adapting to modern semi-professional . A hallmark rule is the , where any successful shot made from beyond the half-court line counts for four points instead of the standard two or three. This feature, adopted at the league's inception in 2000, encourages long-range attempts and rewards athleticism, effectively turning the half-court line into a boundary for higher-scoring plays. Complementing this is the 3D rule, activated when the offensive team commits a backcourt violation, such as turning the ball over or allowing it to go after frontcourt contact. Under the 3D rule, the opposing team's next is worth an additional point—converting two-point shots to three points, three-point shots to four points, and half-court shots to five points—until the offense scores, attempts a , or regains possession. If a defensive foul occurs while the 3D light is on, the offended team receives an extra . Foul penalties in the ABA also prioritize flow and accountability. A technical foul awards the opposing team one free throw and possession of the ball. Flagrant or excessive fouls can result in immediate ejection at the official's discretion, without mandatory review, to maintain discipline and prevent dangerous play. Players accumulate fouls differently, fouling out after seven total (personal or technical) during regulation, but those disqualified in regulation may return for overtime unless ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct. Overtime periods last three minutes each, shorter than standard NBA overtimes, to accelerate resolution and keep games engaging.

Teams

Current and Active Teams

As of the 2025–2026 season, the (ABA) operates with over 170 active teams, establishing it as the largest professional by franchise count. These teams are structured across four regions—East, Central, West, and —each featuring Alpha and Beta conferences subdivided into color-coded divisions such as , , , and Black to facilitate regional scheduling and playoffs. Recent expansions include the addition of teams like the Empire and Juggernauts for the 2025–2026 season. The league's longest-tenured active franchise is the Jersey Express, established in 2005 in , where it originated as the Newmark Express before adopting its current name in 2007; the team has endured through multiple league expansions and contractions while maintaining a presence in the Northeast. More recent entrants, such as the Chicago Fury founded in 2011 and based in Chicago, Illinois, have quickly risen to prominence, achieving dominance in the with undefeated regular seasons and championships in 2024 and 2025. Standout current teams include the , based in , who hold the record for most ABA titles with seven wins, including back-to-back victories in 2016–2017 and additional crowns in 2018, 2019, and 2021; they play home games at the Arena, a venue emblematic of the league's modest facilities. The of , represent another key franchise in the Central Region, known for consistent playoff contention since joining in the mid-2010s. ABA franchises generally operate under locally owned models, with ownership often held by individual entrepreneurs, business groups, or investors who leverage the league's low entry barriers for regional development. Home arenas are typically mid-sized municipal, , or facilities with capacities under 5,000, such as the UNF Arena (approximately 5,000 seats) used by the Giants, allowing for intimate fan experiences and cost-effective operations. Regional rivalries energize the league, exemplified by matchups like the Jacksonville Giants versus the Georgia Soul or Palm Beach Stampede in the South Region, where geographic proximity fuels intense, recurring contests that draw local crowds and highlight divisional stakes.

Defunct and Former Teams

Since its inception in 2000, the American Basketball Association has experienced high franchise turnover, with hundreds of teams folding, relocating, or defecting to rival leagues due to factors such as financial , ownership disputes, and operational challenges. The league's low entry barriers, including a modest , have enabled rapid expansion but also contributed to instability, as many owners lack the resources to sustain operations long-term. Early examples of defunct teams include the Maryland Nighthawks, a franchise that defected to the (PBL) following the 2007–08 season amid financial difficulties. Similarly, the Buffalo Silverbacks, which competed in the ABA from 2006 to 2008, left for the PBL in 2008–09 after struggling with poor attendance and support. The Indiana Legends, one of the league's inaugural teams from 2000 to 2002, disbanded during the 2002–03 off-season due to venue issues and subpar performance. A notable wave of attrition occurred between 2008 and 2013, during which numerous franchises ceased operations, often citing economic pressures and inability to secure stable funding. For instance, the , which played one season in the ABA during 2005–06 before joining the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) for 2006–07, folded entirely in 2007 due to financial issues and inability to secure a stable venue. The CBA folded in 2009, leading to the disbandment of teams like the due to ongoing financial woes. Ownership disputes further exacerbated these issues, leading to abrupt closures or mergers that failed to revive struggling franchises. The legacy of these defunct teams includes occasional reformations under new ownership and names, though most contributed to the league's for volatility rather than lasting impact. This pattern of entry and exit has allowed the ABA to maintain a broad footprint across the and internationally, but at the cost of consistent competition and fan engagement.

Championships and Events

Championship Results

The (ABA) determines its annual champion through a playoff that concludes with a series, typically played in a best-of-3 or best-of-5 format, depending on the season and logistical factors. The league has experienced notable innovations in this structure, including the rare declaration of co-champions in the 2022–23 season due to venue and scheduling issues that prevented a decisive matchup. The Jacksonville Giants hold the record for the most championships with seven titles, establishing them as the most dominant franchise in the league's . The men's league has seen a variety of winners since 2000, with early dominance by teams like the Vermont Frost Heaves (two titles) and Southeast Texas Mustangs/Mavericks (two titles across 2009–11). The Giants' run began in 2011–12 and included consecutive wins in 2012–13 and 2016–17, followed by three straight from 2016–19 and another in 2020–21. Recent years have featured emerging powers like the Chicago Fury, who claimed the 2023–24 title in a double-overtime thriller. The Women's American Basketball Association (WABA), launched in 2017 as an affiliate league, follows a similar for its championships. The 2021 title was won by the Jacksonville Force. Recent champions include the Atlanta Angels (2022), DC Cyclones (2023), Raleigh Aces (2024), and Lady Wolves (2025, undefeated 13–0).
SeasonMen's ChampionMen's Runner-upSeries ResultWomen's ChampionWomen's Runner-up
2000–01Detroit DogsChicago Skyliners107–91 (single game)N/AN/A
2001–02Kansas City KnightsSouthern California Surf118–113 (single game)N/AN/A
2003–04Long Beach JamKansas City Knights126–123 (single game)N/AN/A
2004–05Arkansas RimRockersBellevue Blackhawks118–103 (single game)N/AN/A
2005–06Rochester RazorsharksSoCal Legends117–114 (single game)N/AN/A
2006–07Vermont Frost HeavesTexas Tycoons143–95 (single game)N/AN/A
2007–08Vermont Frost HeavesSan Diego Wildcats87–84 (single game)N/AN/A
2008–09Kentucky BisonsMaywood Buzz127–120 (single game)N/AN/A
2009–10Southeast Texas MustangsKentucky Bisons2–1 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2010–11Southeast Texas MavericksGulf Coast Flash2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2011–12Jacksonville GiantsSouth Carolina Warriors2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2012–13Jacksonville GiantsNorth Dallas Vandals2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2013–14Shreveport-Bossier MavericksJacksonville Giants2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2014–15Shreveport-Bossier MavericksMiami Midnites2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2015–16Jacksonville GiantsWindy City Groove2–0 (best-of-3)N/AN/A
2016–17Jacksonville GiantsWindy City Groove120–102 (single game)N/AN/A
2017–18Jacksonville GiantsAustin Bats119–114 (single game)Not specifiedNot specified
2018–19Jacksonville GiantsSouth Florida Gold116–112 (single game)Not specifiedNot specified
2019–20No champion (COVID-19)N/AN/ANot specifiedNot specified
2020–21Jacksonville GiantsChicago Fury111–108 (single game)Jacksonville ForceMidwest Sound (85–79)
2021–22Steel City Yellow JacketsTeam Trouble123–118 (single game)Atlanta AngelsMount Vernon Shamrocks
2022–23Indiana Lyons & Burning River Buckets (co-champions)N/A (venue issues)N/ANot specifiedNot specified
2023–24Chicago FuryMississippi Miracles117–116 (double OT)DC CyclonesRaleigh Red Storm
2024–25Chicago FurySilicon Valley Panthers131–122 (single game)Lady WolvesNot specified

All-Star Game Results

The American Basketball Association's All-Star Game debuted in 2001 as an East-West showcase, highlighting top players from the league's divisions in a mid-season exhibition. The event quickly became a cornerstone of the ABA calendar, rotating locations among host cities to showcase regional talent and fan bases. By the mid-2000s, the format had gained prominence with high-scoring affairs and notable performances, such as the 2005 game where the West team defeated the East 163–149, led by MVP Lou Kelly's 32 points. The following year, in 2006 at the BankAtlantic Center in , the East narrowly prevailed 129–127 over the West, with earning MVP honors for his 29-point effort. Over time, the festivities expanded to include ancillary events like skills challenges and 3-point contests starting around , enhancing fan engagement and mirroring professional trends. Standout moments include the 2016 exhibition, which featured teams named after ABA legends Dr. J and , drawing significant attention to the league's heritage. Annual MVPs have recognized rising stars, with examples like Lou Kelly in 2005 and in 2006 underscoring the event's competitive spirit. Locations have varied, including Jacksonville for the 2018 game and Albany as a host in prior years, allowing teams like the Giants and Patroons to spotlight local communities. Following the 2017 launch of the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA) as an affiliated league, women's events were introduced, featuring selected rosters in exhibitions and skills competitions. For instance, the 2024 WABA included standout players such as Jamie Cherry of the Raleigh Aces and Grace Hunter, emphasizing the growing integration of within the ABA ecosystem. The 2024–25 event took place in , continuing the tradition of dynamic showcases amid the league's ongoing expansion.

Notable Alumni

Players

The American Basketball Association (ABA) since 2000 has attracted a diverse array of players, including former NBA stars extending their careers and emerging talents using the league as a platform to showcase their skills. These players often bring high-level experience or raw potential to the court, contributing to the ABA's reputation as a competitive environment. Standout performers have included international pioneers and domestic standouts, with many leveraging their time in the ABA to pursue opportunities in other professional circuits. One of the most prominent alumni is , who joined the Long Beach Jam for the 2003–04 season after a hiatus from professional basketball. The Hall of Famer and five-time NBA champion provided defensive intensity and rebounding prowess, leading the Jam to the ABA championship with a 126–123 victory over the Kansas City Knights in the finals. Rodman's participation highlighted the league's appeal to veteran talent seeking competitive play. Similarly, former NBA center , known for his 7-foot-7 stature, played one game for the Nighthawks in 2007 as part of the tallest lineup in basketball history, partnering with 7-foot-9 . This appearance underscored the ABA's role in unique matchups and veteran comebacks. Another notable figure is , the first Mexican-born player to appear in an NBA game, who signed with the Phoenix Eclipse for the 2001–02 season after his NBA stint with the . Llamas' presence emphasized the league's international draw for established professionals. The ABA has facilitated career advancement for numerous players, serving as a developmental hub where athletes refine their games before moving to the or overseas leagues. In the , Jacksonville Giants stars like center Jermaine Bell exemplified this path; a four-time ABA champion and multiple All-Star, Bell earned league MVP honors in the 2012–13 season, averaging dominant performances in scoring and rebounding while later competing in other U.S. minor leagues such as the TBL. His achievements highlight how ABA exposure can lead to sustained professional opportunities. In the women's counterpart, the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA), players have similarly used the league to build toward higher levels. Standouts include Alisia Jenkins, who transitioned from the WABA to play five games for the in the WNBA in 2015, demonstrating the WABA's value in fostering elite competition for female athletes seeking advancement. Stats highlights in the ABA include award winners like Bell, whose MVP campaign helped the Giants secure back-to-back titles, and all-time contributors from powerhouse franchises like the Giants, where players have amassed thousands of points over multiple championship runs.

Coaches

The coaching landscape in the American Basketball Association (2000–present) has been marked by a mix of experienced tacticians, former players, and innovators who have navigated the league's minor professional status to foster team success and talent development. Ron Tilley served as owner and of the Arizona Scorpions from 2011 to 2013, guiding the team through its early seasons while emphasizing community engagement and player welfare alongside on-court performance. In 2014, Tilley transitioned to , where he focused on league stability and expansion, drawing from his dual role in ownership and coaching to influence operational strategies. Kevin Waters emerged as a pivotal figure with the Jacksonville Giants, leading the team to seven ABA national championships between 2012 and 2021, including back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. His tenure highlighted disciplined defensive schemes and high-tempo offenses, contributing to the Giants' record as the league's most successful franchise with consistent playoff dominance. Waters was named ABA Coach of the Year multiple times, including for the 2012–13 season after a 32–1 regular-season mark and the 2016 season following another championship run. In the women's division, the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA), launched in 2017 as an affiliate, featured foundational coaches who built programs from . These efforts supported the WABA's growth, providing pathways for female athletes in a male-dominated professional ecosystem. Several ABA coaches have parlayed their experience into higher-profile roles, underscoring the league's role in nurturing leadership. coached the Warriors in 2011–12, achieving a competitive record before ascending to prominent college positions and eventually NBA assistant opportunities, where his ABA-honed strategies in player motivation proved influential. Similarly, led the Surf to a 23–14 record in the ABA during the mid-2000s, leveraging his playing background to refine fast-break systems that later informed his successful NBA head coaching stints with the . During the ABA's expansion in the , coaches adapted to unique rules like the four-point half-court shot, introduced to promote long-range and . Waters, for instance, integrated these elements into the Giants' offensive playbook, players on half-court attempts to exploit defensive lapses in high-scoring games, which boosted fan engagement and team versatility during the league's growth from regional to national circuits. This innovation encouraged strategic shifts toward perimeter-oriented play, setting the ABA apart from traditional formats.

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