Klein began his professional basketball career in the American Basketball Association (ABA), a professional league that was a rival to the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the late 1960s and early 1970s. He played for the Indiana Pacers, a team that was one of the original franchises in the ABA. Klein was a key player for the Pacers, contributing to the team's success with his scoring ability, rebounding skills, and defensive prowess.
During his time with the Pacers, Klein was known for his tenacity and competitiveness. He was a versatile player who could play both the guard and forward positions, and he was often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best player. Despite his relatively modest size for a professional basketball player, Klein was a strong rebounder and a tough defender.
Klein's career with the Pacers was marked by several notable achievements. He was a part of the team that won the ABA Championship in 1970, a significant accomplishment that highlighted the Pacers' dominance in the league. Klein's performance during the championship season was instrumental in the team's success, and he was recognized for his contributions with a selection to the ABA All-Star team.
After his stint with the Pacers, Klein played for the New York Nets, another team in the ABA. He continued to display his skills on the court, contributing to the Nets' success with his scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities. Klein's time with the Nets further solidified his reputation as a valuable player in the ABA.
Despite his success in the ABA, Klein's professional basketball career was relatively short. He retired from the sport in the early 1970s, after a career that spanned just over five years. However, during his time in the ABA, Klein made a significant impact on the league and on the teams he played for. His skills, competitiveness, and dedication to the game left a lasting impression on his teammates, coaches, and fans.
In summary, Dick Klein was a professional basketball player who made a significant contribution to the sport during his career in the ABA. He played for the Indiana Pacers and the New York Nets, and he was known for his scoring ability, rebounding skills, and defensive prowess. Klein was a key player in the Pacers' ABA Championship win in 1970, and he was recognized for his performance with a selection to the ABA All-Star team. Despite his relatively short career, Klein's impact on the sport was significant and lasting.
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