Remembering the Legacy of George McGinnis
George McGinnis, a basketball icon in the state of Indiana, has passed away at the age of 70. Known for his illustrious career with the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers, McGinnis will be remembered as a true champion and Hall of Fame athlete.
A True Legend of Indiana Basketball
The Simon Family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment released a statement paying tribute to McGinnis, saying, “From his all-state high school days to his time as an IU All-American and, of course, to his legendary ABA championship runs with the Pacers, George McGinnis shaped so many of the fondest basketball memories for generations of Hoosiers. He was the very definition of an Indiana basketball legend.”
Making his mark on the Pacers
McGinnis began his career with the Pacers in 1971, quickly establishing himself as an All-Star forward. In his four seasons with the team, he earned All-Star honors three times and led the ABA in scoring during the 1974-75 season with an impressive average of 29.8 points per game. He even shared the league’s MVP award with the legendary Julius Erving.
Success beyond the Pacers
After his time with the Pacers, McGinnis went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Denver Nuggets, earning two more All-Star selections along the way. However, his journey brought him back to the Pacers in 1980, where he would conclude his career.
A Hall of Famer on and off the Court
The 76ers also paid tribute to McGinnis, acknowledging his impact on and off the court. “George McGinnis was a Hall of Famer on and off the court, earning several accolades during an ABA-NBA career that spanned a decade,” the team stated. “He joined our team in the mid-70s and proved to be an incredible force alongside Julius Erving, leading our team to a 1977 NBA Finals appearance.”
Remembering a Basketball Legend
The passing of George McGinnis is a tremendous loss for the basketball community. His career will be remembered for his exceptional talent, his passion for the game, and the unforgettable memories he created for fans. He leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of Indiana’s greatest basketball legends.