21
Oct
5 min read
A definitive history of the NBA
Learn about the NBA's humble beginnings to global juggernaut
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is one of the most prominent professional sports leagues in the world.
Established in the United States in 1946, it has evolved from a small, regional league into a global phenomenon, featuring some of the greatest athletes in history and influencing both sports and popular culture on a global scale. The history of the NBA is rich with legendary players, thrilling rivalries, groundbreaking innovations, and a growing international appeal.
The Early Years: The Formation of the NBA (1946–1949)
The NBA traces its roots back to the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which was founded on June 6, 1946, by a group of arena owners in major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. The league was created to fill empty arenas during the winter months and to capitalise on the growing popularity of basketball, which had been invented by Dr. James Naismith just over 50 years earlier.
The BAA's first season included 11 teams, and while attendance was moderate, the league struggled to distinguish itself from other basketball organisations, most notably the National Basketball League (NBL), which had been established in 1937. The competition between the two leagues came to a head in 1949 when the BAA and NBL merged, forming the National Basketball Association (NBA). The newly-formed NBA included 17 teams, and this merger is often regarded as the official birth of the modern NBA.
Early growth and struggles (1950s)
The early years of the NBA were marked by financial difficulties, and the league underwent numerous changes in terms of team locations and ownership. By 1954, the number of teams had dwindled to just eight, a figure that would remain stable for the next several decades.
However, the 1950s also saw the beginning of the NBA's growth in terms of popularity and legitimacy. One of the most significant early innovations was the introduction of the 24-second shot clock in 1954. Prior to this, teams could stall and run out the game clock if they were ahead, leading to low-scoring and less exciting games. The shot clock forced teams to take a shot within 24 seconds of gaining possession, speeding up the pace and enhancing the excitement of the game.
The league's first superstar, George Mikan, a dominant centre for the Minneapolis Lakers, helped popularise the NBA during the early 1950s. Mikan led the Lakers to five championships between 1949 and 1954, establishing the team as the first NBA dynasty.
The Bill Russell Era and the Celtics' Dominance (1957–1969)
The late 1950s and 1960s were defined by the dominance of the Boston Celtics, led by coach Red Auerbach and star centre Bill Russell. Russell, who joined the Celtics in 1956, was a defensive powerhouse and an exceptional rebounder, revolutionising the way the game was played. With Russell anchoring the defense, the Celtics won 11 NBA championships between 1957 and 1969, including eight consecutive titles from 1959 to 1966—a record that still stands today.
The Celtics' dominance during this period not only established Boston as a basketball powerhouse but also laid the foundation for the NBA’s credibility as a premier professional sports league. Other great players of this era included Wilt Chamberlain, who set numerous scoring records, and Elgin Baylor, known for his innovative above-the-rim style of play.
The rivalry and expansion of the 1970s
In the 1970s, the NBA expand both in terms of the number of teams and its reach to new audiences. In 1976, the NBA merged with the American Basketball Association (ABA), a rival league that had been established in 1967. The ABA had introduced several innovations, including the three-point line and the use of the red, white, and blue basketball. While many ABA teams folded or merged with NBA franchises, four ABA teams — Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, New York Nets (now the Brooklyn Nets), and San Antonio Spurs — joined the NBA, helping to expand the league’s footprint.
The 1970s were also marked by intense rivalries between players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who would go on to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, and Julius "Dr. J" Erving, who brought a flair and athleticism that transformed the game. While the league struggled with issues such as low television ratings and drug problems among players, the foundation was laid for a new era of success in the coming decade.
The Magic-Bird rivalry and the NBA's rise to prominence (1980s)
The 1980s are widely regarded as the period when the NBA transitioned from a struggling league into a global sports powerhouse. Much of this success can be attributed to the rivalry between Magic Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers and Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics. Their rivalry, which began in college when Bird's Indiana State faced Magic's Michigan State in the 1979 NCAA Championship, carried over to the NBA, where the Lakers and Celtics clashed in three NBA Finals during the 1980s.
Magic and Bird's contrasting styles — Magic’s fast-paced, flashy playmaking versus Bird’s gritty, fundamental excellence— captivated basketball fans. Their rivalry, combined with the intense competition between the Lakers and Celtics, helped the NBA gain widespread media attention. The NBA Finals were televised live during prime time, and fan interest soared.
Off the court, NBA Commissioner David Stern, who took over in 1984, played a crucial role in marketing the league. Stern introduced the NBA Draft Lottery in 1985, enhancing the excitement surrounding young prospects entering the league. He also promoted the individual personalities of players, helping to build the NBA into a global brand.
The Michael Jordan era and global expansion (1990s)
If the 1980s belonged to Magic and Bird, the 1990s were defined by one man: Michael Jordan. Jordan, who was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1984, became the face of the NBA during the decade. His combination of scoring ability, defensive prowess, and competitive fire helped the Bulls win six NBA championships (1991–1993, 1996–1998).
Jordan’s popularity transcended basketball, making him a global icon. His success with the Bulls, combined with his partnership with Nike and the release of the famous Air Jordan sneaker line, helped elevate the NBA to new heights of popularity both domestically and internationally. Jordan’s influence on the game, particularly in terms of marketing and global reach, cannot be overstated.
The NBA also continued to expand internationally in the 1990s. The 1992 United States men’s Olympic basketball team, nicknamed the "Dream Team," featured Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and other NBA superstars. They dominated the competition in the Barcelona Olympics, further enhancing the NBA’s global appeal.
The Modern era: The rise of international players and digital media (2000s–Present)
The 2000s saw the NBA continue to grow, with stars such as Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and Tim Duncan leading the way. The 2000s also marked the rise of international players, such as Dirk Nowitzki (Germany), Pau Gasol (Spain), and Manu Ginóbili (Argentina), who became key figures in the league’s global appeal.
With the advent of social media and digital platforms in the 2010s, the NBA embraced new ways to engage with fans. Players such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant became not just athletes but global influencers, with millions of followers on social media.
Today, the NBA continues to innovate and expand its global reach, hosting games in cities around the world and bringing in talent from across the globe. The league has become a global cultural force, transcending sports and making an indelible mark on entertainment, fashion, and social activism.
Conclusion
The history of the NBA is one of evolution, innovation, and global expansion. From its humble beginnings as a regional league in the 1940s to its status today as a multi-billion-dollar global enterprise, the NBA has shaped the game of basketball and influenced sports culture worldwide. As the league continues to grow, its history serves as a testament to the power of athleticism, entertainment, and cultural impact.
