Nets selling the future with throwback ABA uniforms

The Nets are sending a message to their fans and the rest of the league. The organization is Jersey strong, but it definitely has its minds set for New York. Last night marked the first of five “Hardwood Classics Nights” that the Nets have scheduled for the remainder of the season. During these games, the Nets players suit up wearing their old school New York Nets uniforms from the old ABA days. On the surface, this is a tribute and tip of the cap to the glory years when the Nets were consistent winners and played in Long Island. From 1968 to 1977, the Nets played on the Island, calling three separate buildings their home court (Commack Arena, Island Garden and Nassau Coliseum). They won two ABA championships (’74 and ’76) before they were engulfed by the NBA beginning in the 1976-77 season. That’s a short stretch of history, but it’s one worthy of reflection. Applause for the Nets’ organization. But deep down, this can be somewhat of a gimmick, a tool to get everyone ready for what...