1973-76 Ed Middleton ABA Referee’s Worn Shirt

Historic ABA Referee Shirt: A Unique Piece of Basketball Memorabilia

An Iconic Symbol of Basketball’s Golden Era

Step back in time to the vibrant days of the American Basketball Association (ABA), a league that brought innovation and excitement to the world of basketball. Among the treasures from this era is a remarkable referee shirt, a testament to the league’s colorful history and its lasting impact on the sport. This shirt is not merely a garment; it is a piece of basketball memorabilia that captures the essence of a transformative period in the game.

Detailed Craftsmanship and Design

The shirt features the distinctive “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, complete with wash instructions and a size “M” label, ensuring its authenticity and historical accuracy. Adjacent to this is the “Cosby” distributors tag, further enhancing its provenance. The left chest proudly displays the “ABA” logo basketball, embroidered in the league’s signature red, white, and blue colors, symbolizing the league’s patriotic spirit and innovative flair.

On the back, the referee’s number “16” is prominently displayed in white tackle twill, set against a striking red and blue twill background. This meticulous attention to detail highlights the shirt’s significance and its role in officiating some of the most memorable games in ABA history.

Authenticity and Provenance

This shirt was presented to us as referee worn, and in our opinion, it shows wear consistent with its use in the high-energy environment of professional basketball. Such wear is not merely a sign of age but a testament to the shirt’s active role in the game, adding to its allure and historical value.

• Manufacturer’s Tags: Features “Rawlings” and “Cosby” tags, authenticating its origin.
• Iconic Design: Embroidered “ABA” logo and referee number “16” in tackle twill.
• Historical Wear: Presented as referee worn, showing appropriate signs of use.

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

For collectors and enthusiasts, this ABA referee shirt represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. Its unique design and historical significance make it a standout item in any sports memorabilia auction. As the ABA’s influence continues to be felt in today’s game, owning such an artifact is a way to connect with the league’s enduring legacy.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this shirt offers a tangible link to the past, a reminder of the ABA’s innovative spirit and its role in shaping modern basketball. Don’t miss the chance to add this extraordinary piece to your collection, a true gem in the world of basketball collectibles.

Explore more about this and other exceptional items in our basketball memorabilia auctions and discover the stories behind the artifacts that have defined the sport.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.