In this special episode, we mark the 50th anniversary of the 1976 ABA All-Star Game - the final showcase of a league that helped reshape modern basketball.

Recorded in early 2026, this panel brings together those who lived it: Artis Gilmore, Billy Knight and Brian Taylor, alongside longtime NBA executive Pete Babcock and legendary journalist Peter Vecsey, who covered the ABA firsthand. Also joining is my good friend and longtime basketball fan Adam Beechen.

Together, we revisit the league’s most unique All-Star format; the best of the ABA taking on the first-place Denver Nuggets - a sold-out McNichols Arena, a pre-game concert that delayed tip-off and the debut of the first-ever slam dunk contest, won by Julius Erving.

The conversation expands into the broader ABA story - its fast, creative style of play, the early adoption of the three-point shot, the physicality of the era and the camaraderie that defined the league. Along the way are firsthand stories, behind-the-scenes moments and reflections on how the ABA’s innovations continue to shape today’s NBA.

We also touch on the Soul Power ABA docuseries and the league’s lasting legacy.

Special thanks to Pete Babcock and Peter Vecsey for helping bring this panel together. Kevin Loughery, coach of the 1976 All-Stars, had planned to join but was unable due to technical issues. Additional thanks to Eldridge Recasner, Derrick Gervin and Terry Lyons for their efforts to connect us with David Thompson, George Gervin, and Doug Moe. While those appearances didn't come together, the outreach was much appreciated. Sadly, Doug Moe passed away shortly after this conversation was recorded.

Postscript: Since recording, Brian Taylor and George Karl - whose rivalry is discussed in this episode - have reconciled, appearing together at the Soul Power premiere in New York.

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This episode is dedicated to the memory of Reece Pedretti - one of the truest friends I've ever known. On February 22, 2025, Reece passed away peacefully at the age of 45, following a courageous, nearly two-year battle with a rare form of cancer. Throughout his illness, he faced major surgeries and numerous treatments with unwavering strength.

We first met at work in 2000 and became fast friends, bonding over our shared sense of humour and a deep love for basketball - especially the NBA of the 1990s. Reece had a particular admiration for Shawn Kemp and Jalen Rose; so much so that replica jerseys of both players were displayed at the celebration of his life.

Reece had many admirable qualities, but perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to make people feel at ease, regardless of the situation. He cherished his family deeply and had a love for music. A talented guitarist and singer, Reece regularly performed live, both solo and with various bands.

My thoughts are with his cherished wife Sian; his sons Huw and Paddy; his stepsons Jasper and Jude; his parents Sherry and Des; and his brother Dallas. Their loss is immeasurable.

In August 2013, Reece joined my podcast for a conversation that you're about to hear. I'm grateful to have this recording to remember him by. Knowing Reece for 25 years has made me a better person. I love you, mate, and I always will.

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Today’s guest is Mike Riordan. We dive into his incredible journey - from starring in college at Providence to playing a key role on the legendary 1970 New York Knicks championship team - delivering the franchise’s first title. Mike shared the floor with icons like Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley, and a young Phil Jackson.

We talk about how he carved out his role on such a stacked roster, the lessons he carried into his years with the Washington Bullets, and how the era he lived through - including the Vietnam years - shaped his outlook on life.

Off the court, Mike built a successful business career, and his reflections are insightful. A special shout-out to my friend and former guest, Rich Rinaldi, for making this connection.

Now, let’s drop the needle. My conversation with Mike Riordan.

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Support: Buy Adam a coffee | Amazon: USA / Australia | Audible | PayPal

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[as an Amazon Associate, Adam earns from qualifying purchases - you'll be supporting his podcast at no extra cost]