George McGinnis Obituary

George McGinnis, a legendary figure in American professional basketball, passed away on December 14, 2023, succumbing to heart complications at the age of 73.

McGinnis’s remarkable career spanning 11 seasons in both the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) solidified his status as a basketball icon.

Born on August 12, 1950, McGinnis rose to prominence as a player for the Indiana Pacers, making significant contributions to the team during two stints in both the ABA and NBA.

His impact was pivotal in securing ABA titles for the Pacers in 1972 and 1973, and he further etched his name in history by being named the playoff MVP for the second championship run. In the 1974-75 season, McGinnis was honored as the ABA co-MVP alongside Julius Erving, boasting an impressive career-high average of 29.8 points per game.

In 1975, McGinnis transitioned to the NBA, joining the Philadelphia 76ers. During his time with the 76ers, he earned consecutive All-Star selections in 1976 and 1977. His journey continued with the Denver Nuggets from 1978 to 1980, where he earned another All-Star nod, before concluding his illustrious career back with the Indiana Pacers from 1980 to 1982.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the sport, McGinnis received the highest honor in basketball when he was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2017. The Indiana Pacers also paid tribute to their iconic player by retiring his No. 30 jersey.

The Pacers announced that McGinnis would be laid to rest in a private burial, with plans for a celebration of life scheduled for the upcoming year. This event will undoubtedly serve as a fitting tribute to a man whose contributions to the sport of basketball will forever be etched in history. George McGinnis’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and the annals of basketball greatness.