1950s Oscar Robertson Cincinnati Bearcats Game-Used Road Jersey
(Three-Time NCAA PoY • Three-Time NCAA Scoring Champion • Sourced From College Employee • BBHoF LOA)
Oscar Robertson’s Cincinnati Bearcats Jersey: A Timeless Treasure
The Legacy of “The Big O”
Oscar Robertson, affectionately known as “The Big O,” is a name that resonates with basketball excellence. His illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades, including two inductions into the Basketball Hall of Fame: once for his individual career in 1980 and again in 2010 as a member of the 1960 United States men’s Olympic basketball team. Robertson’s impact on the game is profound, as he was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996, won the MVP award in 1964, and secured an NBA Championship in 1971. Notably, he remains the only player in NBA history to average a triple-double for an entire season.
Dominance in College Basketball
From 1958 to 1960, Robertson dominated the college basketball landscape as a member of the Cincinnati Bearcats. His prowess on the court earned him the title of College Player of the Year and he led the nation in scoring for three consecutive seasons. The University of Cincinnati honored his contributions by retiring his No. 12 jersey, and in 1998, the NCAA Division I Player of the Year award was renamed the Oscar Robertson Trophy, a fitting tribute to a player who won the first two awards ever presented.
A Jersey with Historical Significance
The jersey in question is a remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia, representing a pivotal moment in Robertson’s college career. This black jersey features “CINCINNATI” across the front in red on white tackle twill, with the iconic number “12” on both the front and back. The garment is adorned with a “MacGregor” size “44” manufacturer’s tag, accompanied by additional tags for washing instructions, a “CINCINNATI ATHLETIC GOODS” distributor’s tag, and a size “XL” tag.
- Originality: All lettering, numbering, and tagging appear to be original to the jersey.
- Material Analysis: Under black light inspection, the thread and tackle twill illuminate, indicating a combination of cotton and polyester, materials that became prevalent around 1950.
- Provenance: The jersey comes with a letter of provenance from the consignor, who acquired it from a University of Cincinnati employee.
Why This Jersey Matters
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a testament to Oscar Robertson’s enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the game of basketball. Presented to us as Oscar Robertson’s, this jersey is style matched and shows excellent use, making it a coveted item for any collector or enthusiast of sports memorabilia. Its historical significance and connection to one of basketball’s greatest players make it an invaluable addition to any basketball collections.
For those interested in acquiring a piece of basketball history, this jersey offers a unique opportunity to own a fragment of Oscar Robertson’s storied career. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or simply wish to explore the world of basketball collectibles for sale, this jersey stands as a symbol of excellence and achievement in the realm of sports.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.