Episode 1 of “Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association” captures the revolutionary spirit of the ABA, a league that forever transformed professional basketball. Long before the era of massive arenas and multi-million dollar sneaker endorsements, basketball was defined by a predictable structure. The introduction of the ABA was a game-changer, marking a bold departure from the norm with an energy akin to a pulsating funk record.
The episode unfolds with an electrifying presentation, narrated by executive producers George Karl, Julius Erving, and Common—each of whom embodies the unique ethos of the ABA. Their collaboration emphasizes that the ABA was not merely a sports league, but a cultural movement driven by competition and innovation.
Central to the story is George Mikan, a former NBA star who embraced risk as the league’s first commissioner. Mikan opened the door for a new generation of teams, allowing owners to buy franchises for as little as $5,000. This approach mirrored the entrepreneurial spirit found in the AFL, bringing a faster pace of play and a more vibrant atmosphere that resonated with fans across the country.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when star Rick Barry left the NBA for the ABA, sparked by his desire for a more joyful game. This bold decision ignited fierce legal battles, solidifying the notion that the ABA was a legitimate contender. Barry’s change highlighted the cultural shift, showing that while the NBA was akin to corporate jazz, the ABA thrived on the free-form energy of street funk.
The episode also shines a spotlight on Connie Hawkins, whose journey to stardom in the ABA symbolizes the league’s opportunity to redefine athlete narratives. Excluded from the NBA due to unfounded allegations, Hawkins thrived in the ABA, leading the Pittsburgh Pipers to a championship and establishing himself as a prime example of the league’s commitment to providing second chances.
Another critical facet of the ABA’s legacy was its role in racial integration. While the NBA enforced restrictive racial quotas, the ABA welcomed talented Black players, resulting in a transformative playing style that was faster, more expressive, and full of creativity. The raw energy infused by players like Warren Jabali brought a new dimension to the game.
As the episode continues, it highlights missed opportunities and risks taken by the ABA, illustrating its relentless pursuit of change. The league’s attempts to draft underclassmen and challenge the status quo were epitomized by the arrival of Spencer Haywood, a prodigious talent whose signing led to significant legal challenges and set the stage for future transformations in professional sports.
By the conclusion of Episode 1, it becomes evident that the ABA did not merely seek to imitate the NBA but reinvented basketball as we know it today. Innovations like the three-point shot and the dunk contest are all legacies of the ABA’s vibrant spirit. The merger between the two leagues did not just unify them; it allowed the NBA to absorb the very essence of the ABA’s creativity and passion.
“Change Is Coming” encapsulates the essence of the ABA—the league was a disruptor, a vivid tapestry of culture and athleticism that reshaped modern basketball history. This captivating exploration illustrates that sometimes, it is the outsiders who redefine the game, not simply by participating, but by inventing a whole new way to play.