The Kentucky Colonels history reflects one of the most successful teams in Kentucky Colonels basketball and the Kentucky Colonels ABA era. Founded in 1967, the Colonels became known for their strong rosters, passionate fans, and remarkable success. Their dominance, leadership, and championship achievements made them a defining force in professional basketball’s early years.
Established
1967
City
Louisville
League History
1967 – 1976 / American Basketball Association
Team History
1967 – 1976 / Kentucky Colonels
Nickname
Colonels – The Kentucky Colonels of the American Basketball Association (ABA) have a long and storied history, but few people know about the origins of their nickname. The team was founded in 1967 by two businessmen from Louisville, Kentucky - John Y. Brown Jr. and Harry Lander - who named their team after one of the most famous regiments in American military history: The Kentucky Colonels.
Kentucky Colonels Origin
The original regiment was formed during the Revolutionary War as part of George Washington's Continental Army and served with distinction throughout that conflict and later wars such as War 1812, Mexican-American War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World Wars I & II. This heroic unit has been immortalized both through literature (most notably James Fenimore Cooper's novel “Lionel Lincoln”)and several movies, including Disney’s “Johnny Tremaine."
As an homage to this brave group of soldiers who fought for freedom on behalf of our nation many years ago, the owners decided to give their new basketball franchise its unique moniker – The Kentucky Colonels. Since then, it has become a beloved symbol for sports fans all across America! So next time you see those bright red jerseys with white lettering proudly bearing ‘KENTUCKY COLONELS' emblazoned across them, you can rest assured knowing that they are not just representing great basketball but also honoring heroes from our past!
Championship
ABA Championships 1
1975
Arena
1970 – 1976 / Freedom Hall
1967 – 1970 / Louisville Convention Center
Owner
1973 – 1976 / John Y. Brown, Jr. and Ellie Brown
1969 – 1973 / H. Wendell Cherry, Bill DeWitt, Stuart Jay, David Jones, John Y. Brown, Jr. and Mike Storen
1967 – 1969 / Joseph E. Gregory, Mamie Gregory and William C. Boone
1967 / Don Regan
- 1967
- 1975
- 1976
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Colonels Team Formation
On March 6, 1967, the American Basketball Association awarded the franchise that became the Kentucky Colonels to Don Regan for $30,000. Later that year the franchise was bought by Joseph Gregory, Mamie Gregory, and William C. Boone. John Givens was named the first coach of the Colonels. The Colonels draft picks were used on UK standout Louie Dampier, who signed ... -
ABA Championship 1975
The Colonels claimed first place in the Eastern Division with a record of 58 wins and 26 losses but tied with the New York Nets for the division crown. The Colonels’ average home attendance was 8,727. The Colonels began the playoffs with a one-game matchup against the New York Nets to determine who would be the first place in the ... -
ABA – NBA Merger – No Colonels
The ABA had entered the 1975 – 1976 preseason with ten teams. After three preseason games, the Baltimore Claws were shut down by the league due to financial problems and unpaid bills. The San Diego Sails and the Utah Stars each folded shortly after the season began, the Sails after 11 games, and the Stars after 16. The ABA was ...
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Kentucky Colonels History
The Kentucky Colonels history stands as one of the most memorable chapters in Kentucky Colonels basketball and the Kentucky Colonels ABA era. Established in 1967, the Colonels quickly rose to prominence as one of the most successful franchises in the American Basketball Association (ABA). Founded by businessman John Y. Brown Jr., the team became a symbol of excellence and consistency. With legends like Dan Issel, Artis Gilmore, and Louie Dampier, the Colonels were known for their high-energy style and dominance on both ends of the court.
Throughout their time in the Kentucky Colonels ABA, the team maintained a strong presence, capturing the hearts of fans across Kentucky. The Colonels reached the ABA Finals several times and consistently finished among the league’s top contenders. Their teamwork, discipline, and dedication helped them stand out as a powerhouse in professional basketball during the league’s golden era.
Under the leadership of Coach Hubie Brown, the Kentucky Colonels basketball team achieved remarkable success. Their tactical defense, combined with offensive stars like Gilmore and Issel, made them one of the most feared teams in the ABA. The Colonels’ strong fan base filled arenas across Louisville and beyond, setting attendance records and showcasing the region’s deep love for the sport.
Colonels Achievements
The Kentucky Colonels history is full of achievements that shaped the identity of Kentucky Colonels basketball and the Kentucky Colonels ABA legacy. Over their nine seasons, they won more than 480 regular-season games—one of the highest totals among all ABA teams. Their commitment to excellence and player development made them a model franchise that other teams tried to emulate.
1975 ABA Championship Victory
One of the most defining moments in Kentucky Colonels history came in 1975 when the team captured the ABA Championship under coach Hubie Brown. Led by Artis Gilmore, Dan Issel, and Louie Dampier, the Colonels defeated the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling series that highlighted their elite teamwork and determination. This victory remains a proud symbol of Kentucky Colonels basketball excellence.
Even after the ABA–NBA merger in 1976, when the Colonels were not among the teams absorbed into the NBA, their influence continued. Many former players went on to have successful NBA careers, keeping the spirit of Kentucky Colonels basketball alive. The Kentucky Colonels ABA legacy remains one of passion, pride, and dominance—a true testament to one of basketball’s most iconic franchises.
Sports Fan Products
Coaches
1974 – 1976 / Hubie Brown
1973 – 1974 / Babe McCarthy
1971 – 1973 / Joe Mullaney
1970 – 1971 / Frank Ramsey
1970 / Alex Groza
1967 – 1970 / Gene Rhodes
1967 / John Givens
*Blue is this team’s history