The National Basketball Association (NBA), the global phenomenon we know today, began its life as the Basketball Association of America (BAA) in 1946. At the time, two other professional basketball leagues were already established, but the BAA set itself apart by playing in larger venues, grabbing the attention of a wider audience.
A League Takes Shape: Early Years and Expansion
The BAA launched with eleven teams, divided into two divisions for its inaugural season. Despite the enthusiasm, the early years of the league were marked by instability, as several teams folded and new ones joined the fold. This constant change was a common sight in young professional sports leagues, and the BAA was no exception.
The Celtics: A Legacy Forged in the Crucible of the Early NBA
One of the most celebrated teams in NBA history, the Boston Celtics, was among those original eleven teams, demonstrating their enduring legacy right from the start. The Celtics, tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most championships in the league’s history with 17, faced their share of challenges in the early years. Despite their iconic status, the Celtics only managed one playoff series in the first four seasons of the BAA/NBA.
However, a turning point arrived with the arrival of Red Auerbach in 1950. This marked the beginning of an astonishing streak of playoff appearances, including 12 NBA Finals appearances and 11 championships by 1969. Today, the Celtics boast the highest win percentage in league history, solidifying their position as a dominant force in basketball.
The Stags: A Cinderella Story that Fell Short
The Chicago Stags are a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional sports. These early contenders were a force to be reckoned with, qualifying for the playoffs every year of their four-year run, including a Finals appearance in the BAA’s inaugural season. The Stags faced a formidable opponent in the finals, losing to Chicago 4-1.
A Glimpse of Early Teams: Pioneers and One-Season Wonders
While the Celtics and the Stags stand out as prominent examples, several other teams played a crucial role in shaping the early NBA landscape. The New York Knicks, for example, achieved the honor of playing the first-ever game in BAA/NBA history, defeating the Toronto Huskies on the road. The Warriors (then known as the Philadelphia Warriors) etched their name in history by claiming the first BAA/NBA championship in 1947.
Other teams, like the Rebels, Falcons, Ironmen, Steamrollers, Bombers, and Huskies, played only a single season or a few seasons, leaving their mark on the league’s history. Some, like the Huskies, even held the honor of hosting the league’s first-ever game.
The Capitols: A Tale of Success and Firsts
The Washington Capitols emerged as a formidable force, led by the legendary Red Auerbach as coach. They dominated the inaugural BAA season, securing a remarkable 49-11 record. Though they fell short in the playoffs, their dominance set the stage for future success. In their final season, the Capitols played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in the NBA, when Earl Lloyd became the first African American to play in an NBA game.
The BAA/NBA: A Foundation for a Global Phenomenon
These early years were a time of constant change, a true test of endurance for the league. While many teams eventually disappeared, the BAA/NBA continued to grow and evolve, laying the foundation for the global phenomenon we know today. The league witnessed its first championship, the first playoff run, and the groundbreaking integration of African American players. Through these early trials and triumphs, the NBA was forged, paving the way for a legacy that would reach far beyond the hardwood.
