September 26, 1973 Wilt Chamberlain Joins the ABA - A Bold Move to the San Diego Conquistadors

On this day in 1973, basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain shocked the sports world by signing with the ABA’s San Diego Conquistadors. The move was intended to bring both star power and credibility to the expansion team, as Chamberlain was signed to be both a player and coach. However, a legal dispute with his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers, prevented him from taking the court. The Lakers successfully argued that Wilt was still under contract, barring him from playing for any other team.

Despite this setback, Chamberlain took on the role of head coach for the 1973-74 season. His presence added prestige to the Conquistadors, even though the team struggled on the court. Under Chamberlain’s leadership, the team finished with a 37-47 record. Although he never suited up as a player, his involvement in the ABA added another intriguing chapter to his illustrious basketball career.