George McGinnis
Inducted:
2017
Player Stats
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
235 lb (107 kg)
Born:
August 12, 1950
Harpersville, Alabama, U.S.
Died:
December 14, 2023
Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Power forward
College:
Indiana (1970–1971)
George McGinnis was a powerful forward who dominated both the ABA and NBA in the 1970s with his strength, rebounding, and scoring ability. He began his pro career in the ABA with the Indiana Pacers, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s top stars. McGinnis helped lead the Pacers to two ABA championships and won the ABA MVP in 1975.
After transitioning to the NBA, he starred for the Philadelphia 76ers, earning All-NBA honors and reaching the 1977 NBA Finals. Known for his bulldozing style and ability to fill the stat sheet, McGinnis posted multiple seasons averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds.
His unique impact across two leagues helped bridge the ABA-NBA merger era, and his legacy was cemented with his Hall of Fame induction in 2017.
McGinnis' Awards and Honors
- 3× NBA All-Star (1976, 1977, 1979)
- All-NBA First Team (1976)
- All-NBA Second Team (1977)
- 2× ABA champion (1972, 1973)
- ABA Playoffs MVP (1973)
- ABA MVP (1975)
- 3× ABA All-Star (1973–1975)
- 2× All-ABA First Team (1974, 1975)
ABA/NBA Records
- Recorded a triple-double in his first 10 NBA games
- Top scorers during the ABA–NBA merger era
- First Indiana Pacer to be named to the All-NBA First Team
- Only player to lead the ABA Finals in scoring, rebounding, and assists in the same year (1973)
- Only player in ABA history to average at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists over multiple seasons
ABA/NBA Teams
Indiana Pacers 1971–1975
Philadelphia 76ers 1975–1978
Denver Nuggets 1978–1980
Indiana Pacers 1980–1982
NBA Draft:
1973: 2nd round, 22nd overall pick
Philadelphia 76ers
Number Worn:
30
ABA/NBA Stats
Games Played:
528
Game Started:
235
Points:
17,009
Rebounds:
9,233
Assists:
3,089
FG(%):
.448
3P(%):
.080
FT(%):
.651
PPG:
17.2