Remember the ABA vs. NBA Benefit Basketball Game

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Basketball Game (Left) ABA vs. NBA Benefit, 1971. (Right) Bill Russell, former coach and player for the Boston Celtics, provided the commentary on the game. On June 20th, 1971 at the Indiana State Fairground's Coliseum, Black Expo hosted the first Nationally Televised Contest between stars from the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA). With a score of 115-110, the West All Stars captured a narrow win over the East All Stars team. All Pro Hall-of-Famer Bill Russell provided the color commentary while Eddie Doucette of the Milwaukee Buck's gave the play by play - all on national television! Although Expo hosted the benefit game for three years, proceeds went to support the National office of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. 3145 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis IN 46208 (317) 923-3041 Fax: (317) 925-6624 www.indianablackexpo.com