George McGinnis parlayed his legendary success as a professional athlete into a thriving local business enterprise that includes construction and supply. He’s accustomed to firsts: The first player to ever record 1000 points in a single season as a Washington Continental; scoring a record 148 points in four Sweet Sixteen games and posting a then unprecedented 53-point, 31-rebound All-Star game against Kentucky.

After helping to lead Washington to two consecutive state championships, Mr. McGinnis was drafted from Indiana University into the flashy, colorful, exciting, and high scoring American Basketball Association (1972-1975), where he became a marquee player, most notably with the Indiana Pacers. He played on the Pacers’ 1972 and 1973 ABA championship teams and in 1975 was selected co-MVP of the league, an honor shared with Julius Erving.

In 1976, “Big George” signed with the National Basketball Association’s Philadelphia 76ers – which made the 1997 NBA Finals - and was a three-time league All-Star. He finished his professional NBA career with the Denver Nuggets and the Pacers. He retired after 12 years of professional play and developed a career in media, including stints as spokesman for the Hoosier Lottery, the voice of Indiana Car and Truck and a radio and TV commentator.

Mr. McGinnis and his wife Lynda are the founders of GM Supply Co., an Indianapolis business. His heart is in helping young people get off to a good start and he has given time and money to charities with a youth focus.