1941 Dutch Garfinkel Game-Used College All-Star Uniform

Celebrating the Legacy of Dutch Garfinkel: A Pioneer of Early Basketball

A Storied Career in Basketball

Dutch Garfinkel, a name that resonates with the rich history of basketball, was a trailblazer in the sport’s formative years. A member of both the St. John’s University Hall of Fame and the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame, Garfinkel’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and enduring impact on the game. He played on the very first Boston Celtics team, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey through various leagues, including the ABL, NBL, New York State League, and the BAA.

From Collegiate Star to Professional Pioneer

After a stellar collegiate career, Dutch Garfinkel transitioned to professional basketball with the Baltimore Clippers in the ABL during the 1940-41 season. His journey continued with the Trenton Tigers the following year. Garfinkel’s career was momentarily paused as he served in the U.S. Army during World War II, a testament to his dedication and patriotism.

Returning to the court in 1944-45, Garfinkel played for the Philadelphia SPHAS, becoming the team’s third-leading scorer and helping them clinch the ABL championship. His versatility and skill were further showcased when he switched to the NBL, playing for the Rochester Royals in 1946-46. The following season, he joined the Boston Celtics in the newly formed BAA, where he continued to make his mark.

Notable Achievements and Statistics

• 1946-47 Season: Appeared in 40 games, averaging 4.5 points and 1.5 assists per game.
• 1947-48 Season: Played in 43 games, achieving a career-high average of 6.1 points per game.
• 1948-49 Season: Concluded his professional career with the Celtics, averaging 3.8 points and 2.1 assists per game over nine games.

Garfinkel’s career concluded just before the BAA merged with the NBL to form the NBA in 1949-50, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in professional basketball.

A Unique Piece of Basketball Memorabilia

The uniform worn by Dutch Garfinkel during his time with the Boston Celtics is a rare and significant piece of basketball memorabilia. The jersey features the player number “16” in red on white tackle twill, surrounded by stars, a design that captures the spirit of the era. The uniform, presented to us as game-used, shows appropriate wear and remains unaltered, preserving its authenticity and historical value.

This remarkable artifact is not just a uniform; it is a symbol of Garfinkel’s enduring legacy and the early days of professional basketball. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents an opportunity to own a piece of history from a time when the sport was still finding its footing.

Explore More at Grey Flannel Auctions

At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are proud to offer such extraordinary items that celebrate the rich history of sports. Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore our extensive collection of sports memorabilia auctions, we invite you to discover the stories behind each piece. For those interested in appraising game-worn items, our experts are here to assist you in uncovering the true value of your cherished collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.