Event, Foundation Provide Lift to Former ABA Players
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowSome of the biggest names from the old American Basketball Association will be in Indianapolis this weekend to honor the 50th anniversary of the league that once rivaled the NBA. The event is organized by the Indy-based Dropping Dimes Foundation Inc., which supports former ABA players and their families who are experiencing financial or medical hardships. In an interview on Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, co-founder Scott Tarter and ABA Indiana Pacers great Darnell Hillman discussed the need to help once the league dissolved in 1976.
Hillman, known as Dr. Dunk in his playing days for his style of play, said the event will "bring a lot of light" to the struggles for athletes that were often left behind if they were not one of four teams that merged into the NBA or did not qualify for benefits when the ABA went away. "One of the things I think is unique about this is the ABA was always like a family — just like the Indiana Pacers team was — and the fact that we’re still willing to rally behind and get together to support something like this. I think it’s going to be a great cause."
Saturday’s 50th ABA Celebration will take place the Bankers Life Fieldhouse and will include more than 100 legends such as Julius "Dr. J" Irving, George "The Ice Man" Gervin and Pacers and Indiana University great George McGinnis. National Sports Commentator Bob Costas, who was a broadcaster for the Spirits of St. Louis in the old ABA, will serve as emcee of the festivities. You can connect to more about the foundation by clicking here.