The Minnesota Muskies history highlights the early excitement of Minnesota Muskies basketball in the American Basketball Association. Founded in 1967, the team quickly became a strong competitor, showcasing talent and passion for the game. Although their time in the league was brief, the Muskies left a lasting mark on Minnesota’s professional basketball legacy.
Established
1967
City
Minneapolis – Miami
League History
1967 – 1972 / American Basketball Association
Team History
1970 – 1972 / The Floridians
1968 – 1970 / Miami Floridians
1967 – 1968 / Minnesota Muskies
Nickname
Muskies – The Minnesota Muskies history dates back to the early 1970s. The team has had many nicknames, but one of their most beloved is "Muskies." But where did this nickname come from?
Minnesota Muskies Origin
It all began with an amateur baseball team called the Musky Minnows in Minneapolis. This famous local club played in various leagues around town during its heyday. In 1973, when professional hockey came to town with the Minnesota North Stars, they adopted some of those same local names for their teams - including “Muskies” for their new NHL franchise!
The name stuck, and it wasn't until 1997 that it changed again when they became known as simply “Minnesota” (though there were still plenty of people who referred to them affectionately as “the Muskies”). The original logo featured two muskie heads facing off against each other. At the same time, this design didn't last too long before being replaced by more modern logos featuring stars or snowflakes; you can still find merchandise bearing these classic designs today!
For sports fans here in Minnesota (and elsewhere!), the term "muskie" will always bring up memories of our beloved home team's glory days on ice - no matter what name we call them now! Whether you're cheering on your favorite players at Xcel Energy Center or just wearing your vintage gear proudly, don't forget where it all started: with those legendary muskies way back then!
Championship
ABA Championships 0
Arena
*Miami*
1968 – 1972 / Miami Beach Convention Center
*Tampa-St. Petersburg*
1970 – 1972/ Bayfront Arena
*Jacksonville*
1970 – 1972 / Jacksonville Memorial Coliseum
*Minnesota*
1967 – 1968 / Met Center
Owner
1970 – 1972 / Ned Doyle
1967 – 1969 / L.P. Shields & Fred Jefferson
- 1967
-
Muskies Team Formation with ABA Offices
The ABA first located its league office in Minneapolis and the future looked bright for the Muskies, who shared the same offices as the league. Their first draft pick was talented center Mel Daniels, who would go on to become one of the ABA’s most celebrated players. Daniels was also a first-round draft pick of the NBA’s Cincinnati Royals, but ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Minnesota Muskies History
The Minnesota Muskies history holds a special place in early American Basketball Association (ABA) memories. The franchise was founded in 1967 and played only one season before relocating and becoming the Miami Floridians. Despite their short time in the league, the Minnesota Muskies basketball team showcased remarkable talent and strong performances on the court.
The Minnesota Muskies basketball team was based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and featured future Hall of Famer Mel Daniels, who later became one of the ABA’s greatest centers. The team also had stars like Charlie Williams and Les Hunter, forming a competitive roster under coach Jim Pollard. During the 1967–68 season, they finished with a 50–28 record—an impressive mark for a new franchise.
However, despite their on-court success, financial struggles quickly surfaced. Attendance at games was low, and the Muskies faced stiff competition from other entertainment options in the Twin Cities. The ownership group hoped that winning games would attract fans, but poor attendance figures continued to hurt revenue. By the end of their first season, mounting debts made it difficult to continue operations in Minneapolis.
In 1968, the franchise moved to Miami and rebranded as The Floridians, hoping to find a stronger market for professional basketball. This marked the end of the Minnesota Muskies history, but their short-lived legacy still played a role in shaping the ABA’s early years. Their commitment to high-level play and competitive spirit influenced many future teams that followed.
Muskies Achievements
Impressive Inaugural Season Record
One of the most memorable accomplishments in Minnesota Muskies history was their outstanding first-season record of 50–28. The team finished second in the Eastern Division and made it to the ABA Playoffs. Though they were eliminated by the Kentucky Colonels, this performance remains one of the best by an expansion team in ABA history.
Mel Daniels’ Outstanding Performance
Another major highlight in Minnesota Muskies basketball history was Mel Daniels’ dominant performance during the 1967–68 season. Daniels averaged 22.2 points and 15.6 rebounds per game, earning the ABA Rookie of the Year award. His success not only brought recognition to the franchise but also established him as one of the league’s early stars.
The Minnesota Muskies basketball journey may have lasted only one season, but its impact on the ABA and the sport’s development in Minnesota remains significant. Their story reflects the challenges and excitement of early professional basketball and continues to be remembered by fans and historians who value the roots of the modern game.
Sports Fan Products
Coaches
1969 – 1972 / Jim Pollard/Harold Blitman
1967 – 1969 / Jim Pollard
*Blue is this team’s history