George McGinnis, a renowned basketball player who achieved success both in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA), passed away at the age of 70. McGinnis, a Hall of Fame forward, won two ABA championships and was a three-time All-Star in both leagues.

The Indiana Pacers confirmed that McGinnis died in the early hours of Thursday morning due to complications from a cardiac arrest he suffered the previous week at his home. In recent years, McGinnis had faced difficulties walking after undergoing numerous back surgeries for a hereditary condition.

Known for his distinctively deep voice, warm personality, and love for the sport, McGinnis had a special connection with Indiana, his basketball-rich home state. Hoosiers watched him grow from a standout high school player in Indianapolis to an unstoppable force during his sole collegiate season at Indiana University. Eventually, he led the Indiana Pacers to two championships.

The Simon Family and Pacers Sports & Entertainment issued a statement, honoring McGinnis' impactful basketball legacy. The statement recognized him as an Indiana basketball legend, champion, and Hall of Fame athlete, remarking that he contributed to some of the fondest basketball memories for generations of Hoosiers.

McGinnis embarked on his successful basketball career following the landmark Supreme Court victory in 1971, which allowed underclassmen to turn pro based on a hardship case. Taking advantage of this ruling, he signed with his hometown team, the Indiana Pacers, becoming an instant cornerstone.

Throughout his career, McGinnis earned multiple accolades, including all-ABA and all-NBA honors, and was named the ABA playoff MVP in 1973. His best season came in 1974-75 when he won the ABA scoring title, grabbed rebounds, and showcased his playmaking abilities. He shared the league's MVP Award with Julius Erving, his future teammate in the NBA.

In a historic playoff performance, McGinnis displayed his incredible skills, including a memorable 51-point triple-double, leading in scoring, rebounding, and assists. While he did not win a third championship, McGinnis proved to be a dominant force on the court.

Despite the ABA's financial struggles and contractual disputes, McGinnis navigated his way to the NBA, eventually landing with the Philadelphia 76ers. His presence played a crucial role in the team's resurgence, ending a four-year playoff drought. Teamed up with Julius Erving, the 76ers made it to the NBA Finals in their second season together.

Following stints with the Denver Nuggets and a brief return to the Pacers, McGinnis concluded his 11-year career back home in Indiana. He retired with outstanding career statistics, including 17,009 points, 9,233 rebounds, and 3,089 assists.

In 2017, McGinnis was rightfully honored with induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the game's greats. At Indiana University, he made history by becoming the first sophomore to lead the Big Ten in scoring and rebounding, earning All-American honors. Prior to that, his high school achievements at Indianapolis Washington High School earned him the prestigious Mr. Basketball Award and Mr. Basketball USA title in 1969, leading his team to a state championship.

McGinnis will forever be remembered as an Indiana basketball legend, leaving an indelible mark on the sport through his exceptional talents and contributions both on and off the court. His legacy will live on, inspiring future generations of basketball enthusiasts in the state and beyond.