Basketball Hall of Famer George McGinnis, a pivotal figure in Indiana's basketball legacy, has passed away at 73, the Indiana Pacers announced Thursday.
McGinnis faced complications from a cardiac arrest last week at his home, leading to his passing. His health had been a concern due to back surgeries related to a hereditary condition, affecting his ability to walk in recent years.
"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," said the franchise.
“He was the very definition of an Indiana basketball legend, a champion, and Hall of Fame athlete. But he was more than that. George was family,”
Renowned for his distinctive deep voice, warm personality and unwavering passion for the sport, McGinnis formed a special connection with fans in his basketball-rich home state.
Before playing for the Pacers, he had made significant contributions at the school level. In high school, McGinnis led his team to the 1968-69 state championship and secured the state's prestigious Mr. Basketball Award and the Mr. Basketball USA title in 1969.
The Simon family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment expressed their sorrow for the loss of George McGinnis, acknowledging his enduring impact on the Pacers franchise.
"A passionate advocate for his fellow ABA players and a present, smiling face around the franchise, George has been as synonymous with our Pacers franchise as anyone," they said.
“He will be greatly missed, and all of us at Pacers Sports & Entertainment will keep George and his family in our prayers.”
McGinnis' professional career
McGinnis kickstarted his professional journey with the Pacers in 1971 as he rapidly ascended to the status of an All-Star forward. He earned All-Star honors thrice over four seasons and claimed the ABA scoring title by averaging 29.8 points per game during the 1974-75 season.
McGinnis's career reached new heights during a historic playoff run, featuring a 51-point, 17-rebound and 10-assist triple-double record. His playoff contributions included two series where he surpassed 200 points, 100 rebounds and 50 assists. Although he didn't secure a third championship, McGinnis still topped the postseason in scoring, rebounding and assists.
Moving to the Philadelphia 76ers, McGinnis continued his All-Star legacy. However, after facing financial challenges in the ABA and contractual issues with the 76ers, he negotiated a switch to the NBA.
McGinnis had signed a six-year, $2.4 million deal with the New York Knicks, but NBA Commissioner Larry O'Brien voided the deal. McGinnis then secured a more lucrative six-year, $3.2 million contract with the 76ers, where he spent the next three seasons.
"He joined our team in the mid-70s and proved to be an incredible force alongside Julius Erving – the duo leading our team to a 1977 NBA Finals appearance," said the 76ers.
"Our sincerest condolences go out to George's family and friends. He will be sorely missed."
In 1978, McGinnis was traded to the Denver Nuggets, earning one more All-Star nod before being dealt back to the Pacers midway through the 1979-80 season.
He concluded his 11-year career with 2 1/2 more seasons back home in Indiana, amassing career statistics of 17,009 points, 9,233 rebounds and 3,089 assists. He also concluded his career as a six-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA First-Team selection.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, McGinnis was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017. His jersey number retired alongside three other former Pacers players.