The 1976 American Basketball Association (ABA) Finals was a highly anticipated matchup between the New York Nets and the Denver Nuggets. The series lived up to its billing, delivering six thrilling games that showcased the best of the ABA.
_NEW YORK NETS LOOK TO CAPTURE SECOND ABA TITLE_
The New York Nets, led by Hall of Famer Julius Erving, were seeking their second ABA championship. Erving, also known as “Dr. J,” was a dominant force in the league, known for his flashy style and incredible athleticism.
_DENVER NUGGETS SEEK FIRST ABA TITLE_
The Denver Nuggets, led by David Thompson, were looking to capture their first ABA championship. Thompson, also known as “Skywalker,” was a high-flying sensation, known for his incredible leaping ability and scoring prowess.
_SERIES PREVIEW_
The series was expected to be a closely contested matchup between two of the ABA’s top teams. The Nets were known for their strong defense, while the Nuggets were renowned for their high-powered offense.
_GAME 1: NETS TAKE EARLY LEAD_
The Nets took Game 1 of the series, defeating the Nuggets 120-118 in a thrilling contest. Erving led the Nets with 34 points, while Thompson paced the Nuggets with 31 points.
_GAME 2: NUGGETS EVEN SERIES_
The Nuggets evened the series in Game 2, defeating the Nets 129-121. Thompson was unstoppable, scoring 42 points to lead the Nuggets to victory.
_GAME 3: NETS REGAIN LEAD_
The Nets regained the lead in the series, defeating the Nuggets 110-105 in Game 3. Erving led the Nets with 29 points, while Thompson paced the Nuggets with 28 points.
_GAME 4: NUGGETS TIE SERIES AGAIN_
The Nuggets tied the series again, defeating the Nets 122-116 in Game 4. Thompson was once again the star of the show, scoring 38 points to lead the Nuggets to victory.
_GAME 5: NETS TAKE COMMANDING LEAD_
The Nets took a commanding lead in the series, defeating the Nuggets 114-104 in Game 5. Erving led the Nets with 32 points, while Thompson paced the Nuggets with 29 points.
_GAME 6: NETS WIN ABA CHAMPIONSHIP_
The Nets won the ABA championship, defeating the Nuggets 112-106 in Game 6. Erving was named the ABA Finals MVP, after leading the Nets to their second ABA title.
_ERVING AND THOMPSON PUT ON SHOW_
Throughout the series, Erving and Thompson put on a show, showcasing their incredible athleticism and scoring ability. The two superstars combined for over 60 points per game, making the series a must-watch for basketball fans.
_NETS’ DEFENSE PROVES TO BE DIFFERENCE-MAKER_
The Nets’ strong defense proved to be the difference-maker in the series, as they were able to contain the Nuggets’ high-powered offense. The Nets’ defense held the Nuggets to under 110 points in four of the six games.
_NUGGETS’ OFFENSE IMPRESSES_
Despite falling short in the series, the Nuggets’ offense impressed, averaging over 115 points per game. Thompson’s incredible scoring ability was on full display, as he averaged over 30 points per game.
_SERIES AVERAGES_
Erving averaged 31.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game throughout the series, while Thompson averaged 30.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
_ABA FINALS MVP_
Erving was named the ABA Finals MVP, after leading the Nets to their second ABA title. Erving’s incredible performance throughout the series cemented his status as one of the greatest players in ABA history.
_NETS’ CHAMPIONSHIP CELEBRATION_
The Nets celebrated their ABA championship with a parade in New York City, as fans turned out in droves to congratulate the team on their title.
_DENVER NUGGETS LOOK TO FUTURE_
Despite falling short in the series, the Denver Nuggets looked to the future, with Thompson and the rest of the team vowing to return stronger than ever.
_1976 ABA FINALS: A SERIES FOR THE AGES_
The 1976 ABA Finals was a series for the ages, with the New York Nets ultimately emerging victorious. The series showcased the best of the ABA, with incredible performances from Erving and Thompson.
