Brooklyn Nets: Ranking the franchise’s all-time Big 3s
1. Julius “Dr. J” Erving – “Super” John Williamson – Bill Melchionni (New York Nets (ABA): 1972 – 1976)
Before entering the NBA, the New York Nets dominated the American Basketball Association from the 1972 through the 1976 seasons. Legendary forward Julius “Dr. J” Erving was the most impactful player in the league’s final five seasons.
Erving was a three-time ABA MVP (1974-1976), five-time ABA All-Star selection, three-time ABA scoring champion, and two-time ABA Playoffs MVP with the Nets.
Somewhat forgotten these days, “Super” John Williamson was an electrifying shooting guard who earned his nickname because of his efficient jumper. The New Mexico State alum was a member of the 1974 All-ABA Rookie team. Williamson was a significant force in Game 6 of the 1976 ABA Finals when he scored 16 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter to help lead a 22-point comeback against the Denver Nuggets.
Bill Melchionni, a 6-1 point guard, was the conductor of the trio. During his seven seasons with the Nets, he averaged 12.4 points and 6.1 assists. Melchionni was a three-time ABA All-Star, three-time ABA assist leader, and an All-ABA first-team selection in 1972.
The memorable trio of Erving, Williamson, and Melchionni combined to lead the Nets to two ABA titles in 1974 and 1976. New York’s fantastic 112-106 Game 6 victory over Denver would be the American Basketball Association’s last game. All three players have their jerseys hanging in the Barclays Center’s rafters along with their two ABA championship banners.
Brooklyn fans are very excited about the potential for establishing the NBA’s next dynasty. Still, Nets history shows us that having an extraordinary trio of players doesn’t come along often, nor does it last for a long time.
