We discuss the NBA in the 1970s with Adam Criblez, author of "Tall Tales and Short Shorts: Dr. J, Pistol Pete and the Birth of the Modern NBA."

We look at what the 1970s are best known for in the NBA, how they provided the building blocks for the modern league and the success of the 1980s, why David Stern called them the "dark days," early shoe and endorsement deals, how the NBA tried to market itself, the effects of major expansion and the ABA merger, why the league lost popularity in the late '70s, the power teams (Knicks, Lakers and Celtics) in transition, the significant parity of the late '70s, the rise of player salaries, increased player movement and a trove of a major playoff upsets. We also look at the contributions of Julius Erving, Pete Maravich, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, Clyde Frazier, Bob McAdoo, Dave Cowens, George Gervin, Rick Barry, Elvin Hayes and many more.

Original airdate: 5/17/17