History of the Anderson Packers

The Anderson Packers were one of professional basketball's earliest success stories and one of the original franchises that helped form the National Basketball Association (NBA). Based in Anderson, Indiana, the Packers competed from 1946 to 1950, first in the National Basketball League (NBL) and later in the NBA following the merger of the NBL and the Basketball Association of America (BAA). Although their time in major professional basketball was brief, the Packers captured an NBL championship and played an important role during the formative years of the NBA.

Founding the Franchise

The Anderson Packers were established in 1946 by the Anderson, Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Unlike many early professional teams that were sponsored by companies or factories, the Packers represented the city itself, with the nickname honoring the region's meatpacking industry.

Anderson had a rich basketball tradition, making it a natural fit for one of the NBL's newest franchises. The team quickly became one of the league's top organizations.

Early Success in the NBL

The Packers enjoyed immediate success during their inaugural season.

Led by head coach Murray Mendenhall, Anderson finished the 1946–47 season with one of the league's best records before defeating the Oshkosh All-Stars to capture the 1947 National Basketball League Championship.

The title established Anderson as one of professional basketball's premier franchises during the late 1940s.

Joining the NBA

In 1949, the National Basketball League merged with the Basketball Association of America to create the National Basketball Association (NBA).

The Anderson Packers became one of the NBA's original franchises during the league's inaugural 1949–50 season.

Although the transition brought stronger competition and greater travel expenses, the Packers remained competitive, finishing with a 37–27 record and qualifying for the NBA playoffs.

The Final Seasons

Despite success on the court, Anderson struggled financially.

As one of the NBA's smallest markets, the franchise found it difficult to compete economically with teams in larger cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Minneapolis, and Boston.

Following the 1949–50 season, the Packers left the NBA and joined the NPBL. The NPBL lasted less than a season before it folded. The franchise folded after attempting to relocate, ending Anderson's brief but successful run in major professional basketball.

Home Arena

The Packers played their home games at Anderson High School Wigwam, one of Indiana's most famous basketball venues. The intimate arena gave the team a strong home-court advantage and reflected Indiana's deep passion for the sport.

Notable Players

• Frank Brian
• Howie Schultz
• Dike Eddleman
• Charlie Black
• Bob Harrison
• Bill Closs

Many of these players continued successful careers after the franchise ceased operations.

Notable Coaches

• Murray Mendenhall

Mendenhall guided the Packers to the 1947 NBL Championship and remains one of the most successful coaches in franchise history.

Team Timeline

Awards and Achievements

• 1947 National Basketball League Champions.
• Charter member of the National Basketball Association (1949).
• Qualified for the 1950 NBA Playoffs.
• One of Indiana's earliest professional basketball powers.

Legacy

Although the Anderson Packers existed for only four seasons, their impact on professional basketball remains significant. They were among the strongest teams in the National Basketball League and earned a place in history by becoming one of the NBA's original franchises in 1949.

The Packers also demonstrated the strength of Indiana basketball during the sport's formative years. Their 1947 NBL championship and participation in the NBA's inaugural season ensure that the Anderson Packers remain an important part of basketball history, even though the franchise lasted only a short time.