NBA legend John Stockton announced as keynote speaker for ABA 50th Anniversary Gala
NBA legend John Stockton has been announced as keynote speaker of the Alberta Basketball Association (ABA) 50th Anniversary Gala & Dinner, joining an incredible lineup at the Edmonton Expo Centre on Sept. 6.
Widely considered the greatest pure point guard that ever played, Stockton will share memories from his Hall-of-Fame career and provide insight into his journey from a small NCAA school to becoming the NBA’s all-time assists and steals leader.
“John is one of the legends of our game, and we’re thrilled that he will be joining us on this special occasion,” says Dave Drabiuk, ABA Executive Director. “We’re privileged to have the rare opportunity to hear John look back on his basketball career.”
Drafted out of Gonzaga University in Spokane with the 16th pick in the 1984 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz, John Stockton went on to play all 19 seasons of his record-setting NBA career in Salt Lake City. An 11-time All-NBA selection and five-time All Defensive honouree, Stockton was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 2009.
Along with power forward Karl Malone, Stockton formed the greatest pick-and-roll duo in basketball history, leading Utah to consecutive NBA Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998. Stockton twice won Olympic gold, including in 1992 as a member of the iconic Dream Team. In 2022, he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
The ABA 50th Anniversary Gala will feature the unveiling of the 50 Greatest Moments in Alberta Basketball and a roundtable discussion celebrating the growth of women’s hoops in Alberta and Canada. The roundtable panel, including some of the countries’ most accomplished players and coaches, will be announced shortly.
Festivities are taking place inside Hall D at the Edmonton Expo Centre, home of the CEBL’s Edmonton Stingers. Guests will be seated at tables around the court, creating a unique setting befitting the occasion.
ABA has also unveiled a spectacular group of personalities for its Friday Fireside, taking place Sept. 5 at the Westin Edmonton. Doug Baker, Don Horwood, Ken Larson, Paul Sir and David Wells will gather in an intimate setting to swap stories and reflect on Alberta’s rich hoops history. Doug McLean, voice of the Stingers and University of Alberta basketball, is set to host the evening.
Tickets are on sale now. Individual event tickets are $150 for the ABA 50th Anniversary Gala and $75 for the Friday Fireside, while a dual ticket for both events can be purchased for just $195. Hotel packages are available through Westin Edmonton.
Click here for complete event information, including guest bios.
