[1] They played two seasons (1945–1947) in the National Basketball League, before disbanding due to rising costs in fielding teams.
[1] The team had begun as the Pittsburgh Raiders with local players coming home from World War II in 1944.
Unsuccessful with a 7-23 record, the team found backers in Youngstown.
Playing in the National Basketball League's 1945-46 season, the Bears included local star Leo Mogus, later of NBA play, noted pro Frankie Baumholtz and Press Maravich, future noted college coach and father to NBA legend Pete Maravich, among others.
Regrouping for a try the following season, the Bears were challenged by an expanding League, and a resulting demand for top players.