As NBA World Mourns George McGinnis’ Heartbreaking Demise, Here’s a Look Into Pacers Legend’s 11-Year Legacy

The NBA world is mourning the death of ABA legend George McGinnis, the 73-year-old remembered for his iconic 1-hand jump shot. Following his demise on December 14th, condolences have been pouring in for his family and loved ones from fans across generations and ex-NBA stars.

McGinnis played in the ABA and NBA for 11 years, starting his career in 1971. Later in 1976, the ABA merged into the NBA, and four teams from the ABA joined the league as we know it now. Known as ‘Superman‘ even after his playing days, McGinnis was a power forward and star player for the Indiana Pacers, winning two ABA championships with the franchise in 1972 and 1973.

The NBA world mourns the death of George McGinnis

McGinnis had a stellar career playing for the Pacers in ABA and NBA. Even before that, he was named Mr. Basketball USA in 1969. Two years later he joined the ABA and won his first title the subsequent year. McGinnis was also a 3x ABA All-Star, ABA MVP in 1975, Playoffs MVP in 1973, and was 2x All-ABA First Team. The late legend was also inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017, and his jersey #30 was retired by his franchise, the Indiana Pacers.

The reason behind his death is said to be complications from a cardiac arrest suffered last week at his home. He was taken to the hospital after the cardiac arrest and was surrounded by his family, friends, and ex-teammates till the time of his death.

Following his demise, the Pacers family put out a statement, remembering McGinnis. The Pacers post read, “[George] was the very definition of an Indiana basketball legend, a champion, and Hall of Fame athlete. But he was more than that. George was family.”

Ex-NBA star Metta Sandiford-Artest also added a post on his Instagram story, remembering the late legend.

Read More: Hall of Famer Julius Erving Explains How LeBron James “Will Reestablish the Bar for Who the Goat Is”

Julius Erving compared LeBron James to George McGinnis

The Basketball Hall of Famer Julius Erving was very fond of the late legend. Talking about McGinnis’ physical prowess as an athlete, he said that he was “built like Superman.” Dr. J. also said that until LeBron James came into the picture, he hadn’t seen anyone as athletic as McGinnis.

“Until LeBron came along, I never saw a guy with George’s physical abilities on the basketball court,” Erving said. McGinnis was one of a kind and a true pioneer of the sport. We extend our condolences to his family, and may his soul rest in peace.

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