1953 All-American Redheads Game-Used Uniform with Travel Bag

The All-American Red Heads: A Trailblazing Legacy in Women’s Basketball

A Pioneering Force in Sports

The All-American Red Heads stand as a monumental chapter in the history of women’s basketball. Founded in 1936 by “Ole” Olson, this team was among the first professional women’s basketball teams, captivating audiences across the United States until 1986. The team’s name was inspired by Olson’s wife, who owned several beauty salons in the South, reflecting a unique blend of sports and cultural identity.

Playing by men’s rules, the Red Heads not only challenged gender norms but also showcased exceptional skill and athleticism, earning them a place in the hearts of fans nationwide. Their success was so profound that it led to the creation of two additional teams: the Ozark Hillbillies and the Famous Red Heads. In recognition of their contributions to the sport, the All-American Red Heads were inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.

The Iconic Jersey

The jersey of the All-American Red Heads is a testament to their storied past. Inside the rear collar of the jersey top is the “Arkansas Sporting Goods” manufacturer’s tag, a mark of authenticity and heritage. Across the front, the name “REDHEADS” is emblazoned in white tackle twill on a red nameplate, while the back features the player number “9” and the name “BROOKS,” both crafted in white on red tackle twill with a blue embroidered border. Notably, there is a name change on both the front and back, adding a layer of intrigue to this historic piece.

• Manufacturer: Arkansas Sporting Goods
• Front Design: “REDHEADS” in white tackle twill
• Back Design: Player number “9” and name “BROOKS” with blue embroidered border
• Size: 28, with a large flag tag reading “James Bicknell”

Presented to us as game-used, this uniform is properly tagged and, in our opinion, shows excellent use. Apart from the mentioned name changes, there appear to be no further alterations, preserving its historical integrity.

A Legacy of Excellence

Complementing the jersey is a large, circular travel bag, measuring 23” around and 6” deep. The front of the bag features “Moore’s All-American Redheads” embroidered in red chain stitch against a felt background, with a fully functional zipper. The bag shows wear, rated as EX+ overall, further attesting to its storied past.

This remarkable ensemble is not just a piece of basketball memorabilia; it is a symbol of the pioneering spirit and enduring legacy of the All-American Red Heads. Their influence extends beyond the court, inspiring generations of female athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.

For those interested in exploring more about the fascinating world of sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a diverse range of sports memorabilia auctions. Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or sell game-worn items, our platform provides unparalleled opportunities to connect with the rich history of sports.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.