The American Basketball Association (ABA) was known for its flashy style of play, innovative rules, and larger-than-life personalities. One of the most legendary players to emerge from the ABA was Marvin Barnes, a power forward who left an indelible mark on the league and the fans who witnessed his exceptional talent on the court.

Early years

Marvin Barnes was born on July 27, 1952, in Providence, Rhode Island. He attended Central High School, where he quickly gained a reputation as a dominant force on the basketball court. He later played college basketball at Providence College, where he averaged 20.7 points and 17.9 rebounds per game during his sophomore year, earning him All-American honors. His performance on the college level caught the attention of professional basketball scouts, and Barnes was selected as the second overall pick in the 1974 ABA Draft by the Spirits of St. Louis.

ABA Career

The Spirits of St. Louis was a team in the ABA that existed from 1974 to 1976. It was established as the Houston Mavericks in 1967, the ABA's first year. In 1969, they became the Carolina Cougars. IN in 1974, they moved to St. Louis. While the team's existence in the STL short-lived, it left a lasting impact on basketball history, and Marvin Barnes was a key figure in the team's success. Barnes was known for his impressive scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and charismatic personality. He quickly became a fan favorite and one of the most recognizable players in the league. His unrelenting drive and passion for the game made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

NBA career

Branes faced various challenges throughout his career, including injuries and off-court issues. Some of those antics earned him the nickname "Bad News" Barned. Still, he continued to make a name for himself in the basketball world. He had a brief stint in the NBA with the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, and San Diego Clippers, but it was his time in the ABA with the Spirits of St. Louis that truly defined his legacy. Barnes was a two-time ABA All-Star and was named to the All-ABA Second Team in 1975, showcasing his incredible talent and skill.

Marvin Barnes merchandise

In honor of Marvin Barnes and his contributions to the world of basketball, OldSchoolShirts.com has released two official Marvin Barnes ABA player tees. These vintage-inspired T-shirts feature a retro design with Barnes' name and number, along with the iconic logo of the Spirits of St. Louis. They are made with high-quality fabric for maximum comfort and durability, and are available in various sizes. What's even better is that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Marvin Barnes T-shirts, as well as all of our ABA player tees, go to the Dropping Dimes Foundation in Indianapolis, a non-profit organization that supports former ABA players in need.

These Marvin Barnes T-shirts  are a perfect way for basketball fans to pay tribute to this ABA legend and own a piece of basketball history. Whether you're a fan of the Spirits of St. Louis, a collector of vintage basketball memorabilia, or just appreciate the legacy of Marvin Barnes, this T-shirt is a must-have for your wardrobe.

Old School Shirts

If you're interested in owning this unique piece of basketball history, visit OldSchoolShirts.com and search for "Marvin Barnes" or "Spirits of St. Louis" to find the official Marvin Barnes ABA Player tee, as well as other ABA related merch. By purchasing this T-shirt, not only will you be able to show off your love for the game, but you'll also be supporting a worthy cause through the Dropping Dimes Foundation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to honor the unforgettable legend that is Marvin Barnes with this special T-shirt.

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