1971-1972 Jim McDaniels / 1972-1973 Mike Lewis Carolina Cougars Game-Used Road Jersey

The Carolina Cougars: A Journey Through ABA History

From Houston to North Carolina

The Carolina Cougars’ saga began in 1969 when the franchise was relocated from Houston to North Carolina, marking a new chapter in the American Basketball Association (ABA). This move was a strategic effort to tap into the burgeoning basketball enthusiasm in the region, and it set the stage for a team that would become a significant part of ABA history.

The 1972-1973 Season: A Year of Excellence

The 1972-1973 season was a standout year for the Carolina Cougars, as they assembled a team that was both talented and dynamic. Under the leadership of coaches Larry Brown and Doug Moe, both former ABA players, the Cougars thrived. The roster boasted exceptional talents like Billy Cunningham, Joe Caldwell, and Mack Calvin, all of whom earned spots in the ABA All-Star Game that season. Billy Cunningham’s remarkable performance earned him the prestigious title of the league’s Most Valuable Player, further cementing the Cougars’ legacy in basketball history.

The Final Season and Transition

The 1973-1974 season marked the end of the Carolina Cougars’ journey in North Carolina. Later that year, the team was relocated to Missouri, where they became known as the Spirits of St. Louis. This transition was part of the broader changes within the ABA, which eventually led to the league’s merger with the NBA in 1976. The Cougars’ owners had plans to move the team to Salt Lake City, Utah, to play as the Utah Rockies, but these plans never came to fruition.

A Jersey with a Unique Story

Among the cherished memorabilia from the Carolina Cougars era is a game-worn jersey that tells a fascinating story. Originally worn by Jim McDaniels, this jersey was reissued the following season to Mike Lewis, with a name and number change. The jersey features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s size 44 tag, along with additional tags for wash instructions and a faded “Extra Inches” tag. The front proudly displays “COUGARS,” while the player number “42” has replaced the original “1.” Across the back, the player name “LEWIS” has replaced “MCDANIELS.” All lettering and numbering are crafted in blue on white tackle twill, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the era.

• Historical Significance: Represents a pivotal moment in ABA history and the Carolina Cougars’ legacy.
• Unique Provenance: The jersey’s reissuance adds an intriguing layer to its story.
• Condition and Authenticity: Presented to us as game-used, the jersey shows game-use and remains unaltered except for the name and number change.

This jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a testament to the rich history of the Carolina Cougars and their impact on the ABA. For those interested in acquiring such a remarkable artifact, it is a rare opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. Explore our basketball memorabilia auctions to discover more unique items like this.

For those looking to consign sports memorabilia or sell game-worn items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a platform to connect with collectors who appreciate the historical significance of such artifacts. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of sports memorabilia, our sports memorabilia auctions provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore and acquire pieces of sports history.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.