Royal Retros has the largest selection of ABA merchandise celebrating the legendary league. Jerseys, hats, t-shirts and more for every team! Relive the ABA and The American Basketball Association (ABA) was established in 1967 by Gary Davidson, an attorney, and Dennis Murphy, a marketing executive, both from Southern California. Formed to compete with the existing pro league, the ABA debuted with 11 teams. After a tumultuous nine-year run, four of its teams were absorbed by the established league. Davidson would also form the World Hockey Association (WHA) and the World Football League (WFL)