Former ABA Pacers honored during tribute at Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 2, 2026, 9:47 AM

Last updated Nov 2, 2026

Former ABA Pacers honored during tribute at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Summary

Former ABA players, including Freddie Lewis and Bob Netolicky, were honored at Gainbridge Fieldhouse as part of the Indiana Pacers' celebration of the ABA's legacy during a game against the Brooklyn Nets. The event marked the 50th anniversary of the ABA-NBA merger, with the Pacers wearing throwback jerseys and playing on an ABA-themed court. The tribute included recognition of the three ABA championships won by the Pacers in the early 1970s, and former players reminisced about their impact on the team's history and community engagement. This event reflects the Pacers' effort to educate younger fans about the franchise's origins and significance.

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Key Details
  • •Former ABA players celebrated during Pacers' game against Brooklyn Nets on November 2.
  • •Pacers wear throwback ABA jerseys as part of a season-long commemoration.
  • •Freddie Lewis emphasized the importance of acknowledging the team's history.
  • •The Pacers won three ABA championships in 1970, 1972, and 1973.
  • •Event included tributes and reminiscences from former players about their experiences.
Latest Updates
  • 9:47 AMYahoo Sports — This was their court, the Pacers were wearing their jerseys and the ABA players were back
What they're saying
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"This generation needs to know the history of the team, what we meant," said former ABA Pacer Freddie Lewis. "I mean, we were the only thing in town."

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