IBA closes doors, welcomes CBA

by IBA Press Release
August 15, 2001 - International Basketball Association (IBA)

IBA Press Release

Des Moines, IA - Today the International Basketball Association announced that the six-year-old league will be closing its doors effective September 1, 2001.

After several meetings with other existing minor league organizations throughout the summer, it was decided that it would be best to consolidate the separate leagues and pool their respective resources. Teams from the former CBA/IBL and IBA are now merging together to form the new CBA.

"We are very proud of our IBA history," said past IBA President Bill Sorensen. "Very few minor leagues can claim as we can that they did not have a team fail during the season. Despite our history of growth this opportunity is too good to pass up, and provides us the chance to take our teams to another level. We are really looking forward to being part of the CBA."

The IBA was poised to begin its seventh season of play this November, but when approached about the possibilities of the CBA, the owners found it very enticing.

"This is a great opportunity for the IBA teams to be accepted into the CBA. I truly feel that the FM Beez will flourish in the CBA," said Former Secretary/Treasurer Chris Holland. "The downside to the teams leaving the IBA is the league as an entity will have to come to an end. The IBA will always have its place in the history of minor league basketball."

Originating in 1995 with six teams, the IBA provided a learning ground for players, coaches, and front office staff for six years. The league would grow to an all-time high of 10 teams in 2000-2001.

The CBA will begin its 56th season on November 16th.

International Basketball Association Stories from August 15, 2001

• IBA closes doors, welcomes CBA - OSC Original by IBA Press Release

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