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May 23, 2006 - American Basketball Association (ABA) News Release


Question from Brandon in Chicago: "Why doesn't the ABA have a draft like other leagues? After all, they all can't be wrong and you right?"

Answer: Thanks for the question Brandon. It really isn't a matter of right or wrong. I think it is what works best for the leagues. Drafts have their value. The ABA chooses to use the tryout camp method of recruiting for its teams. Tryout camps are open to anyone from anywhere. And teams do have players from throughout the U.S. and internationally. However, the ABA likes the idea of having teams with "local" players who are recognizable to the fans having played in high school or college in the area. It means less travel for the players; they're closer to home too. Example, there is very good basketball in Florida with teams like Miami, Florida, Florida State, Jacksonville, etc. Hopefully, tryout camps will attract players from those schools and other state schools as well as others who might have played in high school before going out of state to college. Wouldn't it be great for Florida fans to see players from their state compete at the pro level? With over 700 players set to play in the ABA starting in November, there are a lot of openings and the competition at the tryout camps is very spirited. The quality of players is tremendous. It will be a great season. And hopefully, the Chicago team will have players from Illinois, Chicago, Northwestern, DePaul and other great state teams as well as former Illinois high school players. I'm sure that Marques Sullivan, owner of the Rockstars is looking carefully at that. Thanks for the question. If you have a question, write joenewman@abalive.com.

Note: OurSports Central no longer actively covers the American Basketball Association (ABA) as a professional league due in part to its inability to publish and play a schedule and the transitory nature of many of its teams. For information on professional minor leagues, please see OSC's basketball section.



American Basketball Association Stories from May 23, 2006


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.


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