The Oakland oaks history reflects a remarkable journey in American basketball. Founded in the 1960s, the Oakland oaks basketball team became known for their exciting playstyle and strong fan following. Competing in the Oakland oaks ABA, the team achieved notable success that shaped their legacy and left a lasting mark on professional basketball history.
Established
1967
City
Oakland – Washington D.C. – Norfolk
League History
1967 – 1976 / American Basketball Association
Team History
1970 – 1976 / Virginia Squires
1969 – 1970 / Washington Caps
1967 – 1969 / Oakland Oaks
Nickname
Oaks – The Oakland Oaks are among the oldest American Basketball Association (ABA) basketball teams. Founded in 1968, they have been a part of professional basketball for over 50 years. The team has had many nicknames throughout history, but their most popular moniker is “Oaks.” But where did this nickname come from?
Oakland Oaks Origin
The answer lies in two major factors: geography and tradition. Geographically speaking, Oakland is known as “the City of Oaks” because it contains an abundance of oak trees that line its streets and parks. This connection between nature and the city was strong enough to inspire local business owners to name their new ABA franchise after these iconic trees - thus giving birth to the "Oakland Oaks."
In addition to geography, this nickname has some historical significance! When professional sports first gained popularity in America during the early 20th century, baseball teams often adopted names that reflected regional pride or local culture – such as "New York Yankees" or "Boston Red Sox." Similarly inspired by his surroundings at home in California's Bay Area region, founder Art Kimball decided to name his new team after another symbol from nature- Oak Trees!
In conclusion, the Oakland Oaks' name can be traced back geographically and historically. It serves not only as a reminder about how necessary natural resources are for our environment but also honors those who came before us by embracing traditional values associated with sports franchises across America.
Championship
ABA Championships 1
1969
Arena
*Virginia*
1971 – 1976 / Norfolk Scope
1970 – 1976 / Hampton Coliseum
1970 – 1976 / Richmond Coliseum
1971 – 1976 / Roanoke Civic Center
*Washington D.C.*
1969 – 1970 / Washington Coliseum
*Oakland*
1967 – 1969 / Oakland Arena
Owner
1970 – 1976 / Earl Foreman
1967 – 1969 / Pat Boone
- 1967
- 1969
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Oaks Team Formation
On February 2, 1967, pop singer Pat Boone, S. Kenneth Davidson, and Dennis A. Murphy (who would later co-found the World Hockey Association) were awarded a team in exchange for $30,000. An earlier Oakland Oaks basketball team played in the American Basketball League in 1962, along with a baseball team that had played for nearly a half-century in Oakland, with ... -
ABA Championship 1969 – Oakland Oaks
The road to the championship was led by pioneering owner, S. Kenneth Davidson, who aggressively pursued top NBA talent Rick Barry and head coach Alex Hannum, signing them for an unprecedented $85,000 per year. His efforts drove a historic turnaround, from the last place to first in one year. Unfortunately for Barry, he tore ligaments in his knee after colliding ...
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.
Oakland Oaks History
The Oakland oaks history remains one of the most remarkable chapters in early professional basketball. The Oakland oaks basketball team competed in the Oakland oaks ABA from 1967 to 1969, becoming one of the league’s most successful short-lived franchises. Despite their brief run, the Oaks made a lasting mark with their on-court dominance and star-studded roster.
The franchise was led by legendary figures such as Rick Barry, Larry Brown, and Al Attles, who helped the Oakland oaks basketball team achieve rapid success. Their outstanding teamwork and fast-paced style of play captured the attention of fans across the country. The Oakland oaks ABA era saw the team rise as one of the most entertaining and competitive squads in the league.
The Oakland oaks history took off in 1968 when they won their first championship by defeating the New Orleans Buccaneers 4–1 in the ABA Finals. It was a remarkable accomplishment for a new franchise, highlighting their elite talent and strong leadership. The following season, they continued their dominance, sweeping the Indiana Pacers 4–0 to claim another ABA title in 1969. This achievement made the Oakland oaks basketball team one of the few franchises in Oakland oaks ABA history to secure consecutive championships so early in their existence.
An interesting fact about the Oakland oaks history is that both championship wins came under different head coaches — Bill Sharman led the team to their first title, while Al Attles guided them to their second. This demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to thrive under varied leadership, earning them respect across the Oakland oaks ABA landscape.
Oaks Achievements
Off the court, the Oakland oaks basketball team played an essential role in promoting the sport within the Bay Area. Creative marketing campaigns and a dedicated fan base contributed to their popularity. The “Oakland Oakers” mascot became a recognizable part of the team’s identity, drawing families and local supporters to the Coliseum Arena for every home game.
Unfortunately, financial struggles hit the franchise hard after the 1969 season. Despite their on-court success, low attendance and monetary challenges led to the relocation of the team, which later became the Virginia Squires. Though their Oakland oaks ABA journey ended too soon, the team’s success laid the groundwork for future ABA powerhouses and remains a proud part of Oakland oaks history.
1968 ABA Championship Victory
The Oakland oaks basketball team earned their first ABA title in 1968 by defeating the New Orleans Buccaneers. This marked their arrival as one of the most dominant forces in Oakland oaks ABA competition and highlighted Rick Barry’s incredible scoring ability.
Back-to-Back Championships (1968–1969)
Winning consecutive titles placed the Oakland oaks basketball team among the elite in early ABA history. Their 4–0 sweep over the Indiana Pacers in 1969 proved their depth, strength, and superior strategy. These achievements made the Oakland oaks history unforgettable and solidified their legacy in professional basketball.
The Oakland oaks ABA story remains a defining part of basketball’s evolution — a tale of brilliance, teamwork, and a short-lived dynasty that left a permanent mark on the sport.
Sports Fan Products
Coaches
1975 – 1976 / Bill Musselman
1970 – 1975 / Al Bianchi
1968 – 1969 / Alex Hannum
1967 – 1968 / Bruce Hale
*Blue is this team’s history