22
Oct
5 min read
Brooklyn Nets NBA Profile: Five things you need to know
From ABA Champs to Brooklyn's Basketball Renaissance
- Two-time ABA champions (1974, 1976)
- Successful relocation to Brooklyn in 2012, revitalising the franchise
- Home to NBA legends Julius Erving, Jason Kidd, and Kevin Durant
The Brooklyn Nets have evolved from ABA champions to a modern NBA powerhouse, representing Brooklyn's basketball resurgence on the global stage.
Key Details
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Year Founded: 1967 (as New Jersey Americans)
- Home Arena: Barclays Center
- Championships: 2 (ABA: 1974, 1976)
- Major Rivals: New York Knicks, Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors
Australians who have played for the Brooklyn Nets
Ben Simmons: Born in Melbourne, Victoria, Simmons joined the Nets in February 2022 through a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his versatility as a point guard and forward, he has been a key player for the team.
Patty Mills: Hailing from Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Mills signed with the Nets in August 2021. He played two seasons (2021–2023) with the team, providing veteran leadership and sharpshooting skills.
Mitch Creek: From Horsham, Victoria, Creek had a brief stint with the Nets during the 2018–2019 season. He signed a 10-day contract in January 2019 and appeared in four games, averaging 3.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game.
Identity
Team Philosophy The Brooklyn Nets have embraced a philosophy of innovation and adaptability throughout their history. From their roots as ABA pioneers to their current incarnation as Brooklyn's team, the Nets have consistently sought to push boundaries and redefine themselves. This mindset is reflected in their willingness to make bold moves, whether it's relocating the franchise or pursuing high-profile talent to compete at the highest level.
Playing Style The Nets' playing style has evolved over the years, adapting to different eras and personnel. In their ABA days, led by Julius Erving, they were known for a fast-paced, high-flying style that embodied the spirit of the league. During the Jason Kidd era in the early 2000s, the team emphasised a fast-break offense and strong team defense. In recent years, with stars like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, the Nets have showcased a modern, versatile offense built around exceptional individual talent and three-point shooting.
Club Culture The Nets have cultivated a culture that blends the grit and authenticity of Brooklyn with the glamour and ambition of New York City. Since moving to Brooklyn, the organisation has worked to integrate itself into the borough's fabric, embracing its diverse, creative spirit. The team's black-and-white colour scheme and minimalist design aesthetic reflect a sleek, urban identity that resonates with Brooklyn's modern image.
Legacy & Impact
- ABA Dynasty (1972-1976): Led by Julius Erving, the Nets won two ABA championships and established themselves as one of the league's premier franchises.
- Jason Kidd Era (2001-2008): Kidd transformed the Nets into Eastern Conference contenders, leading the team to two NBA Finals appearances and consistent playoff success.
- Brooklyn Renaissance (2012-present): The move to Brooklyn revitalised the franchise, attracting star players and establishing the Nets as a marquee NBA team.
- Famous Teams 1973-74 ABA Champions: This team, led by Julius Erving, secured the Nets' first championship, defeating the Utah Stars.
- 2001-02 Eastern Conference Champions: Jason Kidd's arrival propelled the Nets to their first NBA Finals appearance, showcasing a dynamic, fast-paced style.
- 2020-21 Superteam: Although short-lived, the combination of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden created one of the most talented rosters in NBA history.
Key Figures
Julius Erving: "Dr. J" revolutionised the game with his aerial artistry and led the Nets to two ABA titles.
Jason Kidd: The Hall of Fame point guard rejuvenated the franchise in the early 2000s, leading the team to its most successful NBA seasons.
Kevin Durant: His decision to join the Nets in 2019 signalled the team's arrival as a premier free agent destination and championship contender.
Five Fast Facts
- The Nets are one of only four ABA teams to join the NBA in the 1976 merger.
- They are the only team to win the final ABA championship before joining the NBA.
- The Nets have played in three different states: New York, New Jersey, and back to New York.
- Their move to Brooklyn in 2012 made them the first major professional sports team in the borough since the Dodgers left in 1957.
- The team's black and white colour scheme, adopted in 2012, was influenced by Jay-Z, who was a minority owner at the time.
Club Timeline
1967: Founded as the New Jersey Americans in the ABA
1968: Relocated to Long Island and renamed the New York Nets
1974: Won first ABA championship
1976: Won second ABA championship and joined the NBA
1977: Moved back to New Jersey as the New Jersey Nets
2002: Reached first NBA Finals
2012: Relocated to Brooklyn, becoming the Brooklyn Nets
2019: Signed Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, ushering in a new era
Key Statistics
All-Time Record: 2,021-2,422 (as of 2023-24 season)
Championship History: 2 ABA Championships (1974, 1976)
Hall of Fame Players: 8 (including Julius Erving, Jason Kidd, and Kevin Garnett)
Retired Numbers: 6 (Drazen Petrovich, John Williamson, Bill Melchionni, Julius Erving, Jason Kidd, Buck Williams)
Records: Highest single-season winning percentage (.704 in 2001-02)
Today
The Brooklyn Nets have established themselves as one of the NBA's most intriguing and potentially dominant teams in recent years. The move to Brooklyn in 2012 marked a turning point for the franchise, elevating its profile and attracting star talent. The signings of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in 2019 signalled the team's ambition to compete for championships and become a marquee NBA franchise.
However, the Nets' pursuit of a title has been marked by both promise and volatility. The formation of a superteam with James Harden joining Durant and Irving created enormous expectations, but injuries and off-court issues have often derailed their potential. The team's willingness to make bold moves, including trading for Harden and later dealing him to Philadelphia, demonstrates their commitment to championship contention.
Despite the challenges, the Nets have solidified their place as a premier destination for top NBA talent. The team's strong organisational culture, state-of-the-art facilities in Brooklyn, and the allure of playing in New York City continue to attract players and maintain the Nets' status as perennial contenders. As they navigate the complexities of building a sustainable winner, the Nets remain one of the league's most fascinating and closely watched franchises.
