The ABA, the NBA Merger, and Former Players Waiting for Pay | Michael Husain, Filmmaker

On today's show I had a thorough discussion with documentary filmmaker and media producer Michael Husain about his latest project, 'The Waiting Game.'

The 2024 film centers on the story of the Dropping Dimes Foundation, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that supports former American Basketball Association (ABA) players who are now struggling financially and fighting for their pensions from the NBA.

Michael dives into the history and significance of the ABA, the players' contributions to modern basketball, the origin of the Indiana Pacers, the merger with the NBA in 1976, and the ensuing battles these former basketball legends face in their retirement.

The film can be found at its website www.TheWaitingGameMovie.com. In mid-February, it will launch as the flagship film of The Reelist Indie Film Club, a brand new streaming service available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Google TV, and more. Sign up now to be notified of the launch at www.Reelist.Stream. You can also follow The Reelist Indie Film Club on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about: - 'The Waiting Game' and the Purpose of the Dropping Dimes Foundation - The ABA and NBA Merger - Battles ABA Players Face Today

Check out these great clips from the show: 00:54 Guest Introduction: Michael Husain, Filmmaker 01:13 The ABA and Its Impact 03:32 The Merger and Its Aftermath 06:01 The Struggles of Former ABA Players 12:29 The Fight for Pensions 29:02 Uncomfortable Conversations and Struggles 30:53 The Waiting Game: An Independent Film 31:10 The ABA and NBA Merger 31:51 The Save the Pacers Telethon 35:20 Challenges in the Film Industry 37:00 Launching The Reelist Indie Film Club 40:34 The Journey of Making Documentaries 52:20 Indiana's Heart and Soul

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