Who Were the First Professional Basketball Teams?

When considering the origins of professional basketball, it's essential to recognize the teams that initially dominated the court. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of notable franchises like the Philadelphia Warriors, who won the first championship of the Basketball Association of America in 1947, and the Original Celtics, known for their impressive record and influence on the sport. The Buffalo Germans also left a significant mark with an incredible 792 wins out of 878 games. These early teams didn't just play the game; they defined its competitive spirit. Their legacy has profoundly shaped the modern sport we know today.

Origins of Professional Basketball

The origins of professional basketball date back to 1898 with the establishment of the National Basketball League (NBL), comprising six teams. This early league laid the groundwork for the sport's professional evolution, though it struggled with player migration and financial instability, leading to its dissolution after a few years.

In 1946, the Basketball Association of America (BAA) was founded, featuring teams such as the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Philadelphia Warriors. These teams played a pivotal role in shaping the early professional basketball landscape. The Philadelphia Warriors won the first BAA championship in 1947, highlighting the league's emerging competitive nature.

A significant milestone occurred in 1949 when the BAA merged with the National Basketball League to form the National Basketball Association (NBA). This merger established the framework for the NBA's future growth and success. Notably, the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks, both original BAA teams, have since become iconic NBA franchises. This formative period was crucial in defining the structure and popularity of professional basketball as we know it today.

Early Professional Leagues

Many early professional leagues laid the foundation for today's basketball. The initial professional basketball league, the National Basketball League (NBL), started in 1898. Unfortunately, it disbanded after just six years due to player migration issues. Despite its brief existence, the NBL set the stage for future leagues by proving there was an audience for professional basketball.

The National League, established in 1898, was the first professional basketball league, comprising six teams from the Middle Atlantic and New England regions. Teams like the Trenton Nationals played pivotal roles in early competitions. However, financial difficulties and player migrations led to the league's dissolution in 1904. Despite its short lifespan, the National League's organized structure set the foundation for future professional basketball leagues, ultimately contributing to the formation of the NBA.

Fast forward to 1946, the Basketball Association of America (BAA) was formed, marking a significant milestone. The BAA's inaugural season showcased 11 teams, including the still-prominent New York Knicks and Boston Celtics. These early leagues were essential in shaping the structure and popularity of professional basketball.

The Philadelphia Warriors were the initial champions in BAA history, clinching the title in the league's opening season of 1947. However, not all teams found success. Franchises like the Cleveland Rebels and Pittsburgh Ironmen folded after just one season, highlighting the volatility of early professional leagues.

In 1949, the BAA and the NBL merged to create the National Basketball Association (NBA), a professional basketball league that continues to thrive today. This merger was significant, bringing together the best teams and talents under one unified banner.

First NBA Teams

The first professional basketball teams emerged in the early 20th century, as the game began to shift from amateur competitions to paid professional leagues. Many of these early teams were based in the northeastern and midwestern United States and were often sponsored by local businesses or industrial companies. Here are some of the most notable first professional basketball teams:

1. Trenton Nationals (Trenton, New Jersey)

Established: 1896
League: National Basketball League (NBL) (1898-1904)

The Trenton Nationals are widely regarded as one of the first professional basketball teams. Formed in 1896, they played in the National Basketball League (NBL), which is considered one of the first professional basketball leagues. The team was based in Trenton, New Jersey, and attracted many talented players, making them one of the dominant teams of their time.

2. New York Wanderers

Established: 1898
League: National Basketball League (NBL) (1898-1904)

The New York Wanderers were another founding team in the early NBL. Based in New York City, they were part of the original six teams in the league and played in many of the early professional basketball competitions. Although they did not achieve the same level of success as some of the other early teams, they contributed to the early growth of professional basketball in urban centers.

3. Philadelphia Warriors (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Established: 1926 (not to be confused with the later NBA team formed in 1946)
League: American Basketball League (ABL)

The Philadelphia Warriors were one of the original teams in the American Basketball League (ABL), founded in 1925. This team should not be confused with the later NBA team by the same name. The early Philadelphia Warriors were successful in the ABL, winning multiple league championships and helping to popularize professional basketball in the Philadelphia area.

4. Original Celtics (New York, New York)

Established: 1914 (as a professional team)
Independent Team and American Basketball League (ABL)

The Original Celtics, established in 1915, stand as one of the pioneering professional basketball teams that dominated the sport's early years. Known for their exceptional talent and strategic play, the Original Celtics played an essential role in popularizing basketball in the United States. Competing in numerous leagues, including the American Basketball League (ABL) and the Eastern Basketball League (EBL), they showcased their prowess across different platforms.

During the 1922-23 season, their record was an impressive 204 wins and 31 losses, a demonstration of their relentless spirit and competitiveness. The Celtics' influence helped set the stage for future professional leagues, paving the way for what would eventually become the modern NBA. Their style of play and strategic innovations became the blueprint for many teams that followed.

Despite their success, the Original Celtics disbanded in 1941. However, their legacy remains a significant part of basketball history. They're remembered not just for their dominance but also for their contributions to the development of the sport. When you look at the history of professional basketball teams, the Original Celtics certainly hold a special place, influencing the game well beyond their active years.

5. Buffalo Germans

Established: 1895
Independent Team and Barnstormers

Following the impact of the Original Celtics, another influential team in early professional basketball was the Buffalo Germans. Established in 1895, they quickly became a dominant force in the sport. Their astounding record of 792 wins out of 878 games over 44 years underscores their dominance.

The Buffalo Germans didn't merely win games; they revolutionized the sport. Their playing style emphasized teamwork and strategy, setting a high standard for future teams. Their approach included:

Teamwork: Each player had a clear role and executed it precisely.
Strategy: They utilized advanced tactics to outmaneuver their opponents.
Consistency: Their sustained success over four decades demonstrated their excellence.

Their impressive record and innovative play significantly contributed to the sport's early growth. The Buffalo Germans' success helped pave the way for the formation of basketball leagues, establishing basketball as a major sport in America. Their legacy exemplifies how early professional teams shaped the future of the game.

6. Cleveland Rosenblums (Cleveland, Ohio)

Established: 1925
League: American Basketball League (ABL)

The Cleveland Rosenblums were one of the founding members of the American Basketball League (ABL) in 1925. Owned by Cleveland businessman Max Rosenblum, the team was one of the most successful franchises in the ABL, winning multiple league titles. The Rosenblums were known for their competitive play and attracted some of the top basketball talent of the time.

7. Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons (Fort Wayne, Indiana)

Established: 1941
League: National Basketball League (NBL) / NBA

The Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons were originally a factory-sponsored team, owned by Fred Zollner, and joined the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1941. They became one of the top teams in the NBL and eventually became part of the NBA after the NBL-BAA merger in 1949. The team later relocated to Detroit, where they became the Detroit Pistons.

8. Oshkosh All-Stars (Oshkosh, Wisconsin)

Established: 1929
League: National Basketball League (NBL)

The Oshkosh All-Stars were a professional basketball team in the National Basketball League (NBL) and were one of the most successful franchises during the league’s existence. The All-Stars consistently made the playoffs and won the NBL Championship in 1941. The team was based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and played a key role in developing professional basketball in the Midwest.

9. Sheboygan Red Skins (Sheboygan, Wisconsin)

Established: 1933
League: National Basketball League (NBL)

The Sheboygan Red Skins were another prominent team in the NBL. Founded in 1933, the Red Skins competed at a high level for many years and were known for their defensive prowess and physical play. The team joined the NBA in 1949 after the NBL-BAA merger but eventually disbanded.

10. Akron Goodyear Wingfoots (Akron, Ohio)

Established: 1918
League: National Basketball League (NBL)

The Akron Goodyear Wingfoots were one of the most famous early professional teams sponsored by a corporation. Owned by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, the team was initially formed as part of the company’s athletic program but became a professional team by the time the National Basketball League (NBL) was established in 1937. The Wingfoots were one of the NBL’s founding members and won the league’s first championship in 1938.

11. Rochester Royals (Rochester, New York)

Established: 1923 (professional in 1945)
League: National Basketball League (NBL) / NBA

The Rochester Royals were another successful team in the NBL and were known for their talented roster and strong coaching. The team won the NBL Championship in 1946 and later became part of the NBA after the NBL-BAA merger. Today, the franchise exists as the Sacramento Kings.

12. Syracuse Nationals (Syracuse, New York)

Established: 1946
League: National Basketball League (NBL) / NBA

The Syracuse Nationals were a founding member of the NBL in 1946 and later joined the NBA after the merger. The team was highly competitive throughout the 1940s and 1950s, winning an NBA championship in 1955. The franchise later relocated to Philadelphia and became the Philadelphia 76ers.

13. New York Renaissance (New York, New York)

Established: 1923
Independent Team and Barnstormers

The New York Renaissance, also known as the "Rens", were one of the most successful and influential African American basketball teams of the early 20th century. Founded in 1923, the Rens were an all-Black team that competed in exhibition games and barnstormed across the country, playing against both Black and white teams. They were one of the first teams to break racial barriers in professional basketball and became a symbol of excellence and perseverance.

14. Harlem Globetrotters (Chicago, Illinois)

Established: 1926
Independent Team and Barnstormers

The Harlem Globetrotters were founded in Chicago in 1926 (despite their name), and they quickly became one of the most famous basketball teams in the world. Initially a competitive barnstorming team, the Globetrotters eventually shifted to their famous comedic and exhibition style, though they still played serious games in their early years. The team helped to popularize basketball internationally and broke racial barriers by competing against white teams during segregation.

15. Tri-Cities Blackhawks (Moline, Illinois)

Established: 1946
League: National Basketball League (NBL) / NBA

The Tri-Cities Blackhawks were another founding member of the NBL and later became part of the NBA. The team was based in the cities of Moline, Rock Island, and Davenport, which were collectively known as the “Tri-Cities.” After the NBL-BAA merger, the Blackhawks eventually relocated several times and are now known as the Atlanta Hawks.