INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Pacers’ dynasty in the American Basketball Association (ABA) is the focus of a new four-part documentary series, “Soul Power,” premiering on Prime Video on February 12, 2026. The series highlights not only the team’s on-court success but also the unique sense of community and unity fostered during a period of significant societal division.
The ABA, which existed from 1967 to 1976, was a groundbreaking league responsible for innovations that reshaped professional basketball, including the three-point shot and the slam dunk contest. “Soul Power” explores how the ABA’s influence extends to the modern NBA, with former players and historians arguing that many aspects of today’s game have roots in the dynamic ABA.
A central element of the Pacers’ story, as depicted in the documentary, is the team’s ability to bring people together. After home games at the State Fair Coliseum, players frequently gathered at Neto’s, a bar owned by Pacers star Bob Netolicky. This establishment became a popular meeting place for players and fans from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion for basketball.
“The Pacers united a community,” Netolicky says in the documentary. Sports journalist Mark Montieth echoes this sentiment, noting that the Pacers were a rare space where people from different walks of life mingled freely. “The Pacers were one of the few places in town where Black people and white people both would go to and mix together,” Montieth states in “Soul Power.”
The documentary also shines a spotlight on individual players who embodied the spirit of the ABA. Darnell Hillman, known as “Dr. Dunk” for his exceptional jumping ability, is presented as a captivating figure. Billy Keller is also highlighted as “a lights out shooter,” a player who struck fear into opposing ABA teams.
“Soul Power” is executive produced by Common and “Dr. J” Julius Erving, alongside other Hall of Famers like Larry Brown and Bob Costas. The series delves into the ABA’s nine-year rivalry with the NBA and its lasting impact on player empowerment and American sports culture. The documentary emphasizes the league’s promotion of civil rights and its reflection of a diverse America.
The 1972 ABA Finals marked the third time the Indiana Pacers had reached the championship series in the league’s first five seasons, demonstrating the team’s consistent success during that era. The documentary explores the loyalty and unity within the Pacers organization, presenting them as a prime example of the ABA’s values.
According to Prime Video, “Soul Power” will include flashing lights, violence, substance use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content. Subtitles and audio descriptions will be available. The series consists of four episodes and is rated 16+.
