1955 Steve Balchios San Francisco Dons NCAA Championship Award Plaque
(Player LOA)
The 1955 NCAA Championship Plaque: A Testament to Basketball Excellence
A Historic Journey to Glory
The 1954-55 San Francisco Dons embarked on a remarkable journey, entering the 1955 NCAA Tournament as the top-ranked team in the nation. With an impressive 28-1 regular season record, they were a force to be reckoned with. The Dons, led by the legendary Bill Russell and K.C. Jones, showcased their dominance by winning their first two games of the tournament with an average margin of 21 points. Their path to glory was not without challenges, as they faced the Oregon State Beavers in the Elite Eight. In a nail-biting encounter, Steve Balchios and his teammates secured a one-point victory, propelling them to the Final Four.
Triumph in the Final Four
In the Final Four, the Dons faced the Colorado Buffaloes, a team they dispatched with ease, setting the stage for a championship showdown against the defending champions, the La Salle Explorers. The dynamic duo of Russell and Jones dominated the court, amassing a combined 47 points to lead their team to a resounding 14-point victory. This triumph marked the University of San Francisco’s first NCAA championship, a feat they would replicate the following year, cementing their legacy in college basketball history.
The Championship Plaque: A Symbol of Victory
This exquisite wooden award plaque, measuring 9” x 13” and weighing 3 lbs, was presented to Steve Balchios in recognition of the University of San Francisco Dons’ victory in the 17th Annual NCAA Basketball Championship in 1955. The plaque is adorned with a brass basketball player and the words “NATIONAL COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP” in relief. Below, a brass plaque reads “17TH ANNUAL TOURNAMENT ‘55 – FIRST PLACE”, accompanied by the official NCAA seal. This award is in NRMT condition and comes with a Letter of Authenticity from Steve Balchios.
Why This Plaque Matters
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the first NCAA championship victory for the University of San Francisco.
- Iconic Players: Celebrates the achievements of basketball legends Bill Russell and K.C. Jones.
- Exquisite Craftsmanship: Features intricate brass detailing and the official NCAA seal.
- Provenance: Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Steve Balchios.
This championship plaque is not just a piece of basketball memorabilia; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the San Francisco Dons and their indelible mark on the history of college basketball. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this artifact represents an opportunity to own a piece of sports history, a symbol of triumph and excellence.
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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.