ABA

 

2006 Tropics Enjoy Great Season In The ABA

 

Art "Pilin" Alvarez, the founder of the AAU Miami Tropics, was awarded an ABA franchise in August of 2006.

The team, which kept the Miami Tropics name that has such strong history in South Florida, was coached by Ed Aurrichio, Alvarez's former assistant at Miami Christian.

With Alvarez as the owner and Auricchio as the coach, the Tropics finished 18-5 and ranked third in the ABA. The Tropics had a winning record against every team they played.

On Sept. 11, 2006, the Tropics played their first-ever game in the ABA. And although Miami lost to the Palm Beach Imperials, 112-102, there were several memorable moments.

Shooting guard Carlos Escalera had 42 points, which may stand as the team scoring record for awhile.

In addition, here are some historic firsts:

First point - Sylbrin Robinson, on a free throw.

First basket - Carlos Escalera.

First steal - Terence Shelman.

First rebound - Sylbrin Robinson.

First assist - Carlos Escalera.

First dunk - Jeff Aubry.

First lead - 5-4 on an Escalera layup.

First subs - Marcus Barnes and Eric Wilkins.

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FIRST WIN

The Tropics' first win was recorded Nov. 18, 2006, at home, beating rival Palm Beach, 119-115.

Carlos Escalera had 34 points, Terence Shelman had 24 points and 15 rebounds, Sylbrin Robinson had 21 points and 15 rebounds, Marcus Barnes had 17 points and Eric Wilkins added 12 points and 8 rebounds.


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THE NEXT STEP

Alvarez and the Tropics decided in February of 2007 not to continue in the ABA in order to pursue other opportunities in pro basketball. Among those opportunities is a potential expansion franchise in the NBA's Development League.

With all the success the Tropics enjoyed in the ABA, there is no doubt the organization would do big things in the NBDL as well.

 

PHOTOS

 

THE TROPICS GATHER BEFORE THEIR FIRST GAME.

 

CARLOS ESCALERA