1948-1949 Mike Bloom Minneapolis Lakers Worn Road Warm-Up Jacket

The Minneapolis Lakers Warm-Up Jacket: A Piece of Basketball History

Introduction to a Legendary Era

Before the 1948-49 season, the landscape of professional basketball was forever altered when the Minneapolis Lakers, along with the Rochester Royals, Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons, and Indianapolis Kautskys, transitioned to the Basketball Association of America (BAA). This strategic move expanded the BAA, which already boasted teams in major markets like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago, and infused it with the star power of these National Basketball League (NBL) teams. Among these, the Minneapolis Lakers emerged as a dominant force, setting the stage for their storied legacy in the NBA.

A Rare Artifact: The Minneapolis Lakers Warm-Up Jacket

We are thrilled to present an extraordinary piece of basketball memorabilia—a warm-up jacket from the Minneapolis Lakers, a team that laid the foundation for modern basketball excellence. This jacket is not merely a garment; it is a testament to the rich history and tradition of the Lakers franchise.

Inside the back of the collar, the jacket features the “Carl Smelkinson” manufacturer’s tag, a mark of authenticity and craftsmanship. The back tail proudly displays the player number “11” on a screen-printed strip tag, accompanied by a size 42 flag tag. Across the back, “MPLS. LAKERS” is emblazoned in vibrant yellow tackle twill, a nod to the team’s iconic colors and branding.

Why This Jacket is a Must-Have

• Historical Significance: Represents the Minneapolis Lakers’ early years in the BAA, a pivotal moment in basketball history.
• Authentic Craftsmanship: Features original tags and tackle twill lettering, showcasing the quality of vintage sports apparel.
• Condition: The jacket shows wear consistent with its age, yet remains unaltered, preserving its historical integrity.

The Legacy of the Minneapolis Lakers

The Minneapolis Lakers’ transition to the BAA marked the beginning of a new era in professional basketball. With legendary players like George Mikan leading the charge, the Lakers quickly became a powerhouse, winning multiple championships and setting the standard for excellence in the league. This jacket is a tangible connection to that illustrious past, a piece of history that any collector would be proud to own.

For those passionate about sports memorabilia, this jacket offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of basketball’s formative years. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of consigning sports memorabilia, this artifact is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Minneapolis Lakers and their impact on the game.

Explore more of our basketball collections and discover the stories behind each piece. This jacket is not just a relic; it’s a celebration of the sport’s rich history and the remarkable journey of the Minneapolis Lakers.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.