- 1970
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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.
History of the Pros
The Memphis Pros were a professional basketball team that was part of the American Basketball Association (ABA) from 1970 to 1975. The franchise began as the Miami Floridians but moved to Memphis in 1971 and adopted its new name. While they did not have much success during their five years in existence, they still hold a special place in sports fans' hearts due to their unique history and colorful characters who played on the team.
Led by head coach Babe McCarthy, the Pros posted an overall record of 101-113 over five seasons before folding after 1975 when four ABA teams merged into what is now known as NBA’s Denver Nuggets franchise. During this period, some notable players included future Hall of Famers Connie Hawkins and Mel Daniels, plus stars such as George Thompson, Larry Finch, and Bill Keller. All had successful careers with other ABA franchises following Memphis’ demise.
Despite never making it past first-round playoff appearances or winning any championships while playing for Memphis, these players are fondly remembered by many sports fanatics for being part of one of only nine original ABA teams that eventually made up today's NBA league. Even though there is no longer an active pro basketball team representing Tennessee's largest city, memories remain alive through retired jerseys honoring those early pros legends like Hawkins, Finch & Keller, whose contributions will always be appreciated by true blue hoops aficionados everywhere!
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 history of both basketball and Memphis itself.
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
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.
Coaches
1974 – 1975 / Joe Mullaney
1972 – 1973 / Bob Bass
1967 – 1972 / Babe McCarthy
*Blue is this team’s history