Signature Series Spotlight - Jim Eakins

Jim Eakins, a towering 6'11" center, made his mark in professional basketball during a dynamic era of the sport. Born on May 24, 1946, in Sacramento, California, Eakins was a standout at Sacramento High School before playing college basketball at Brigham Young University (BYU). At BYU, Eakins displayed his versatility and defensive prowess, establishing himself as a dominant force on the court. His college career set the stage for his professional journey, where he would become one of the key players in the American Basketball Association (ABA).

ABA Career Highlights:

Eakins began his professional career in the ABA after being selected by the Oakland Oaks in the 1968 ABA Draft. As a rookie, Eakins quickly proved his worth, playing a crucial role in the Oaks' championship-winning season in 1968-69. His defensive presence and ability to score in the paint made him an invaluable asset to the team.

Eakins’s career in the ABA spanned eight seasons, during which he played for multiple teams, including the Oakland Oaks, Washington Capitols, Virginia Squires, and Utah Stars. He was known for his consistent play, strong rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities. Eakins was a key player on the 1970-71 Utah Stars team that won the ABA Championship, solidifying his reputation as a winner.

One of Eakins's most notable seasons came in 1973-74 with the Virginia Squires, where he averaged 14.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly on both ends of the court. Throughout his ABA career, Eakins was known for his durability and consistent performance, finishing his time in the league with impressive career averages of 11.2 points and 8.1 rebounds per game.

Career Highlights and Stats:

• ABA Championships: 2 (1969 with Oakland Oaks, 1971 with Utah Stars)
• Teams Played For: Oakland Oaks, Washington Capitols, Virginia Squires, Utah Stars
• Career ABA Averages: 11.2 points per game, 8.1 rebounds per game
• Notable Seasons:
  • 1968-69: Key contributor to Oakland Oaks' ABA Championship run
  • 1970-71: Helped lead the Utah Stars to an ABA Championship
  • 1973-74: Averaged 14.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game with the Virginia Squires
• Legacy: Known for his consistency, defensive prowess, and ability to perform in clutch moments, Eakins is remembered as one of the ABA’s reliable big men during its existence.

Jim Eakins's contributions to the ABA are part of the league's rich history, and his legacy lives on through the memories of fans and the accomplishments of the teams he helped lead to victory. His journey through the ABA showcases the importance of hard work, consistency, and teamwork, traits that made him a champion on more than one occasion.

Now, you can own a piece of basketball history with the Jim Eakins Signature Series Basketball, exclusively available at Lana Sports. https://lanasports.com/products/aba-signature-series-jim-eakins

This limited-edition basketball celebrates the legacy of a true ABA champion and is a must-have for any serious collector or fan. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home a symbol of the game’s rich past.