The New Orleans Buccaneers history traces back to their founding as one of the original New Orleans Buccaneers ABA teams in 1967. Known for their dynamic gameplay and talented roster, the Buccaneers quickly made their mark in professional basketball. Their legacy continues to represent the early excitement and competitive spirit of the ABA era in New Orleans.
Established
1967
City
New Orleans – Memphis – Baltimore
League History
1967 – 1975 / American Basketball Association
Team History
1975 / Baltimore Claws (Only Played three exhibition Game)
1974 – 1975 / Memphis Sounds
1972 – 1974 / Memphis Tams
1970 – 1972 / Memphis Pros
1967 – 1970 / New Orleans Buccaneers
Nickname
Buccaneers – The New Orleans Buccaneers have a long and storied history, dating back to their founding in 1967. But what many fans may not know is the origin of their nickname. It turns out that New Orleans Buccaneers history has an interesting touch in this!
New Orleans Buccaneers Origin
The name was inspired by Jean Lafitte, a famous pirate who operated in the Gulf of Mexico during the early 19th century. Legend has it that he used New Orleans as his base for operations and even helped General Andrew Jackson defend against British forces at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. As such, when choosing a name for its new franchise, local ownership felt strongly about honoring this part of Louisiana's past with “Buccaneers” as its mascot – thus connecting them to Lafitte's legacy while also giving them an exciting identity on which they could build upon into professional football success!
The team embraced this heritage wholeheartedly from day one, introducing Buccaneer-themed logos (including iconic skull & crossbones) and uniforms featuring red & black colors reminiscent of seafaring pirates centuries ago! This combination quickly became synonymous with winning football throughout much of southern Louisiana, helping establish strong fan support before ever playing a single game thanks to clever marketing campaigns highlighting their unique connection between sportsmanship and piracy!
With over 50 years since first taking flight under these sails and five division championships (and counting!), there’s no doubt that The Bucs are here to stay... whether you like it or not!! So if you're looking for swashbuckling NFL action, check out your hometown heroes next time they take the field: You won't be disappointed!!
Championship
ABA Championships 0
Arena
*Emmitsburg, Maryland (Baltimore)*
1975 / St. Mary’s College
*Memphis*
1970 – 1975 / Mid-South Coliseum
*New Orleans*
1969 – 1970 / Tulane Gym
1967 – 1969 / Loyola Field House
Owner
1975 / American Basketball Association Office
1972 – 1975 / Charles O. Finley
1970 – 1972 / P. W. Blake
1967 – 1970 / Morton Downey, Jr., Charles G. Smither and 5 other Owners
- 1967
- 1970
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Buccaneers Team Formation
With the founding of the ABA on February 2, 1967, a charter franchise was awarded to a group of seven investors, including Morton Downey, Jr. The group obtained their franchise for $1,000 as opposed to the $30,000 fronted by most other original teams. Charles G. Smither, one of the seven owners, served as team president; another of the investors, Maurice ... -
The End – in New Orleans
The team picked up Wendell Ladner in the draft and rechristened itself the Louisiana Buccaneers, planning to play its home games throughout the state during the 1970 – 1971 season including in New Orleans, Shreveport, Lafayette, Monroe, and Baton Rouge. Like most ABA teams, the Bucs were never on the strong financial ground, and then move to the smaller Tulane ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
New Orleans Buccaneers History
The New Orleans Buccaneers history began in 1967 when the franchise joined the New Orleans Buccaneers ABA, becoming one of the league’s original teams. Based in Louisiana, the Buccaneers quickly gained attention for their fast-paced style and patriotic uniforms. Despite their short existence, they left a lasting impression on ABA basketball fans across the country.
The New Orleans Buccaneers basketball team made an immediate impact in their first season, finishing with an impressive record under head coach Babe McCarthy. Led by star players like Doug Moe, Jimmy Jones, and Larry Brown, the team advanced to the inaugural ABA Finals in 1968. Though they lost a close seven-game series to the Pittsburgh Pipers, the Buccaneers proved themselves as one of the league’s strongest early teams.
The New Orleans Buccaneers ABA roster continued to feature talented players over the years, including Red Robbins, Marlbert Pradd, and Gerald Govan. Their balanced lineup and strong defense helped them remain competitive in the league. However, financial challenges and low attendance plagued the franchise, forcing them to relocate to Memphis in 1970, where they became the Memphis Pros.
Even after the move, the New Orleans Buccaneers history remains an essential part of professional basketball’s foundation in Louisiana. The team’s presence helped introduce the sport to a passionate Southern fan base, paving the way for future basketball franchises in the region.
Buccaneers Achievements
1968 ABA Finals Appearance
One of the biggest highlights in the New Orleans Buccaneers history came during the 1967–68 season when the team reached the ABA Finals in its very first year. The New Orleans Buccaneers basketball team showcased outstanding teamwork and resilience, nearly capturing the championship before narrowly losing to the Pittsburgh Pipers in a thrilling Game 7.
Division Titles and Legacy
The New Orleans Buccaneers ABA team won two division titles during their short existence, solidifying their reputation as one of the most competitive franchises in the league’s early years. Their success inspired future teams in Louisiana and remains a proud chapter in the city’s rich basketball tradition.
Coaches
1974 – 1975 / Joe Mullaney
1972 – 1973 / Bob Bass
1967 – 1972 / Babe McCarthy
*Blue is this team’s history