The American Basketball Association (ABA) fundamentally changed the course of professional basketball, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA’s evolution. This influence, driven by dynamic players like Julius “Dr. J” Erving, is set to be celebrated in the upcoming docuseries Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association, premiering on Prime on February 12. The ABA revolutionized NBA legacy by introducing innovations and styles that continue to shape the game.
The ABA’s Cultural Rise and Lasting Imprint
The ABA emerged during a cultural moment in the late 1960s and 1970s when black popular culture was gaining significant momentum. Its style of play, characterized by a rebellious and improvisational spirit, resonated deeply with urban communities across America. Writer and producer Nelson George explained this connection, noting,
The ABA’s existence parallels the rise of funk music with longer instrumental sections, bigger bass and drum sounds, and a freaky vibe different from soul music,
and added,
Funk and later disco were the ABA soundtrack.
The league’s unique red, white, and blue basketball became an iconic symbol of this vibrant era. It was responsible for pioneering the three-point shot and introducing the slam-dunk contest, adding an entertainment element that revolutionized basketball’s appeal.
The ABA featured some notable teams like the New York Nets, Kentucky Colonels, Spirits of St. Louis, and Virginia Squires. It was also the starting ground for franchises that later became NBA staples, including the San Antonio Spurs, Indiana Pacers, and Denver Nuggets. Legendary players such as George “Ice Man” Gervin, Spencer Haywood, David “Skywalker” Thompson, Rick Barry, and Artis Gilmore rose to prominence in this league, shaping basketball history.
Julius “Dr. J” Erving: The Face of the ABA
Among all the talents in the ABA, Dr. J stood out as the definitive icon. His gravity-defying dunk from the free-throw line at the 1976 ABA All-Star Game remains one of the most memorable moments in basketball lore. Nelson George praised Dr. J’s impact:
Julius Erving was the definitive star of the ABA,
and described his style:
With his trademark dunks, huge Afro, and great nickname, Dr. J was a legend before he stepped on an NBA court. He made the slam dunk a work of art. I have a #32 Nets jersey that I wear every summer. I saw him twice as a kid in Long Island and have always treasured those memories.
The ABA operated from 1967 until its 1976 merger with the NBA, which came after a heated bidding war. This union ensured that many of the ABA’s innovations and stars became central to the NBA’s growth, setting new standards for the sport’s excitement and style.
Preserving the ABA’s Enduring Legacy
George also emphasized the lasting value of the ABA’s playing style and culture:
Watch clips of the games and check out Artis Gilmore, Rick Barry, David Thompson, and the style they played with,
and added,
The ABA also had fun jerseys worth collecting. I keep an ABA ball autographed by the great David ‘Skywalker’ Thompson on my desk for inspiration.
The Soul Power docuseries includes perspectives from key figures such as George Karl, Bob Costas, Hubie Brown, Ralph Sampson, Dr. Theresa Rundsteadler, and Common. Directed by Kenan Kamwana Holley and produced by Dr. J himself, alongside Karl and Common, the series aims to highlight the cultural and athletic significance of the ABA’s contribution.
This docuseries is expected to deepen appreciation for how the ABA revolutionized the NBA legacy, celebrating its role as a catalyst for the modern game’s flair and innovation. As fans and historians reflect on this transformative era, the story of the ABA and Dr. J continues to inspire the sport’s future.
This is the new Soul Power trailer.
This Series is so timely and important!
Ten days to go till the Series drops… pic.twitter.com/jf22AEvtGV
— Soul Power: Legend of the ABA (@abathrowbacks) February 2, 2026
