Barnes was a dominant force in the NBA, leading the Spirits to the 1975 ABA Finals and winning the MVP award in the process. He was also a two-time ABA All-Star and was named to the All-ABA Second Team in 1976. He was traded to the Detroit Pistons in 1977 and continued to be a productive player, averaging 17.3 points and 11.3 rebounds per game in his first season with the team.
Barnes' career was cut short due to off-court issues, including drug use and legal troubles. He was suspended by the NBA in 1980 and never returned to the league. Despite his shortened career, Barnes was one of the most talented players of his era and is remembered for his incredible athleticism and skill.
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