2002 Eastern Conference Finals

Lore & Background

The franchise was established in 1967 as a founding member of the ABA. The team was named the New York Americans, but due to venue issues, it played its first season as the New Jersey Americans. After a playoff game was forfeited due to poor facilities, the team moved to Long Island and changed its name to the New York Nets. The Nets won ABA championships in 1974 and 1976, led by Julius Erving. After the ABA–NBA merger, the team was forced to pay fees to the Knicks and traded Erving to the Philadelphia 76ers. The team moved back to New Jersey before the 1977–78 season and was renamed the New Jersey Nets.

In Their Own Story

The Continental Airlines Arena hummed with nervous energy during the final moments of Game 7. The hardwood felt slick under the weight of expectation, every pass scrutinized by the Pistons' defense. Jason Kidd stood at the free-throw line, the season's culmination resting on his shoulders as the crowd held its breath.

Reader's Guide

The source article does not provide information about the 2002 Eastern Conference Finals or any specific playoff series after the 1976–77 season. It only covers the team's history from 1967 through the move to New Jersey in 1977. Therefore, no details about the 2002 playoffs, coaches, or opponents are available from the source.

Did You Know?

• The team was originally named the New York Americans but played as the New Jersey Americans in its first season.
• The name 'Nets' was chosen because it rhymes with the New York Mets and New York Jets.
• The Nets won the last ABA championship in 1976.
• Julius Erving was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers because the Nets needed cash to pay the NBA's invasion fee.