Eakins began his professional career when he was drafted by the San Francisco Warriors in the 1968 NBA Draft. However, he opted to join the ABA, signing with the Oakland Oaks. During his rookie season, Eakins played a supporting role on a team that featured stars like Rick Barry. The Oaks went on to win the ABA Championship in 1969, marking a high point early in Eakins' career.
Following the Oaks' championship season, the team relocated and became the Washington Caps. Eakins continued to play with the franchise as it moved and transformed into the Virginia Squires. His time with the Squires saw him develop into a reliable player, contributing consistently on both ends of the court. Eakins' performance was characterized by his solid rebounding and defensive capabilities, which made him a valuable asset to his team.
In 1972, Eakins joined the Utah Stars, where he played alongside notable players such as Zelmo Beaty and Willie Wise. His tenure with the Stars further solidified his reputation as a dependable center in the league. Eakins' ability to perform under pressure was evident during the Stars' playoff runs, where he provided crucial support in the paint.
Eakins' journey in the ABA continued with the Virginia Squires once again, before he moved to the New York Nets. It was with the Nets that Eakins experienced another championship victory. In the 1973-74 season, the Nets, led by Julius Erving, captured the ABA title. Eakins' role as a backup center was instrumental in providing depth to the team's roster, allowing the Nets to maintain their competitive edge throughout the season.
The merger of the ABA and NBA in 1976 marked a new chapter in Eakins' career. He transitioned to the NBA with the Nets, who were one of the ABA teams absorbed into the league. Eakins played two seasons in the NBA, splitting his time between the Nets and the Kansas City Kings. His experience and veteran presence were valuable during this period of adjustment for former ABA teams.
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