American · Holland, Indiana · Born 10 August 1950American basketball point guard renowned as one of the greatest defensive players in ABA/NBA history, leading the league in steals multiple times.
Don Buse was born in Holland, Indiana in 1950. Indiana Pacers (ABA) selected him in 1972 and he became one of the ABA's most valuable players — a point guard who led the league in assists twice and in steals. His combination of defensive disruption, playmaking and basketball intelligence made him highly sought after when the ABA merged with the NBA. He led the league in steals in both the ABA and the NBA. Phoenix Suns selected him in the ABA dispersal draft and he was a key contributor on his competitive teams. He won the ABA championship with the Indiana Pacers in 1977 — the franchise's only professional basketball title. His career statistics of 8.4 points and 5.9 assists per game understate his value as a two-way guard who could guard and distribute at equal effectiveness. He was one of the first players who was valued almost entirely for process statistics — steals, assists and low turnovers — rather than scoring. His defensive impact was calculated and systematic rather than athletic — he read passing lanes and anticipated offensive intentions better than any guard of his era.
Exceptional defensive skills, particularly steals and assists
How They Played
Defensive-minded point guard with excellent court vision
Lasting Impact
ABA and NBA point guard known for leadership and playmaking
Career Honours
- NBA Champion (1977, ABA)
- Steals Champion 2x
- Assists Champion (ABA)
- ABA All-Star 3x
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana Pacers | 1972–1977 | 374 |
| Phoenix Suns | 1977–1980 | 246 |
| Utah Jazz | 1982–1985 | 226 |
American Athletes