Washington Capitols (1946–1951): Early NBA Team and Auerbach's First Head Coaching Role

The Washington Capitols were a professional basketball team from Washington, D.C., that competed in the early years of the Basketball Association of America (BAA) and its successor, the National Basketball Association (NBA). The franchise operated from 1946 until it ceased operations in 1951.

On-court history

As one of the teams formed when the BAA began play in 1946, the Capitols were competitive in the league’s first seasons. Their most notable team achievement was reaching the league finals in 1949, where they were defeated by the Minneapolis Lakers.

People associated with the team

• Coach: Arnold "Red" Auerbach served as the Capitols' head coach during the club’s early years before moving on to a long career elsewhere in professional basketball.
• Players: Among the roster over the team’s existence were Bob Feerick and Horace McKinney, both of whom are remembered for their contributions during that era.

Demise and legacy

The Capitols left the league in 1951. Although the franchise was short-lived, it played a role in the formative period of professional basketball in the United States and is often mentioned for its competitive seasons and for having helped launch the careers of figures who remained prominent in the sport.