The Memphis Pros history tells the story of a short-lived yet impactful era in ABA basketball. The Memphis Pros basketball team represented the city from 1970 to 1972, bringing exciting action to local fans. As one of the early Memphis Pros teams, they played a key role in shaping the foundation of professional basketball in Memphis.
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
Pros – Sports fans in Memphis know and love the city's professional basketball team, the Memphis Pros. But did you ever wonder where this iconic nickname came from? Well, it turns out that its origins are rooted deep in the Memphis Pros history of both basketball and Memphis itself.
Memphis Pros Origin
The name "Memphis Pros" was first used by a semi-professional team during World War II. This group consisted of players from all over Tennessee who wanted to keep playing ball while serving their country overseas - hence why they were referred to as "Pros." The name stuck with them even after they returned home, becoming one of several nicknames for teams based in or around the area throughout subsequent decades.
In 1976, when a new NBA franchise moved into town and adopted “Memphis Pros” as its official moniker, many locals saw it as an homage to these brave soldiers who had risked everything for their country so many years before - making this nickname even more meaningful than before! It also helped solidify what would become known worldwide: That no matter how much time passes or how far away we go – our hometown heroes will never be forgotten!
Today there is still something special about being called a Pro; whether you're talking about sports teams or individuals striving towards greatness on any given day – everyone can relate to having pride in themselves & taking ownership over their actions & accomplishments. And thanks mainly to those original servicemen during WWII – we now have an enduring symbol representing excellence in our backyard: The beloved Memphis Pros!
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
- 1970
-
Move to Memphis – Pros
On August 21, 1970, the team was sold to Mississippi businessman P. W. Blake. Ten days later, he moved the team to Memphis and changed its name to the Memphis Pros, reportedly because the already purchased ‘Bucs’ uniforms could easily be converted to ‘Pros’ uniforms at little expense.
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.
Memphis Pros History
The Memphis Pros history, previously known as the New Orleans Buccaneers, were a professional basketball team that competed in the American Basketball Association (ABA) from 1970 to 1975. The Memphis Pros basketball team began as the Miami Floridians before relocating to Memphis in 1971, adopting the new identity that quickly became part of the city’s sports culture. Though short-lived, the Memphis Pros teams remain an important chapter in ABA and Memphis basketball history.
Under the leadership of head coach Babe McCarthy, the Memphis Pros basketball team recorded an overall mark of 101–113 during their five seasons in the league. While they struggled to compete with powerhouse franchises like the Kentucky Colonels and Indiana Pacers, the Pros were known for their determination and loyal fan base. They played their home games at the Mid-South Coliseum, where passionate supporters filled the stands despite the team’s financial challenges.
The Memphis Pros history also includes notable players who later became stars in the sport. Among them were future Hall of Famers Connie Hawkins and Mel Daniels, along with standout performers such as George Thompson, Larry Finch, and Bill Keller. Each contributed to the Memphis Pros teams’ competitive spirit, helping the squad maintain respectability in a tough ABA environment.
In 1972, financial instability forced ownership changes and management struggles, which led to the team being rebranded as the Memphis Tams and later as the Memphis Sounds. Despite these transitions, the Memphis Pros basketball team left an enduring legacy for the city’s basketball enthusiasts, paving the way for future professional franchises in Tennessee.
Memphis Achievements
Although the Memphis Pros did not secure a championship, they achieved several milestones worth noting, particularly in player development and local engagement.
Connie Hawkins’ Impact on the Team
One standout highlight in Memphis Pros history was the short but memorable tenure of Connie Hawkins, whose electrifying play and leadership inspired the team and its fans. His time with the Memphis Pros basketball team showcased his athleticism and charisma, which later helped shape the ABA’s reputation for exciting, high-flying basketball.
Even without playoff glory, the Memphis Pros teams built a foundation of resilience and community pride. Their story remains a nostalgic reminder of an era when Memphis first embraced professional basketball—a history still remembered fondly by sports fans across the region.
Sports Fan Products
Coaches
1974 – 1975 / Joe Mullaney
1972 – 1973 / Bob Bass
1967 – 1972 / Babe McCarthy
*Blue is this team’s history