Circa 1967 Elvin Hayes Houston Cougars Home Worn Shooting Shirt

Elvin Hayes’ Legendary Houston Cougars Jersey: A Rare Piece of Basketball History

A Storied College Career

Elvin Hayes, affectionately known as “The Big E,” is a name that resonates with basketball aficionados worldwide. His remarkable journey with the Houston Cougars is etched in the annals of NCAA history. In 1966, Hayes led the Cougars into the Western Regional semi-finals of the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament, showcasing his burgeoning talent and leadership. The following year, he propelled the team to the Final Four, a testament to his prowess on the court. During this tournament, Hayes attempted 31 field goals, scoring 25 points and securing 24 rebounds, a performance that solidified his status as a collegiate basketball legend.

The Game of the Century

On January 28, 1968, Hayes and the Houston Cougars faced off against the UCLA Bruins in what would become a historic encounter. This game, the first-ever nationally televised regular season college basketball game, was played in front of a record 52,693 fans at the Astrodome. Hayes delivered a stellar performance, scoring 39 points and grabbing 15 rebounds, while effectively limiting the legendary Lew Alcindor to just 15 points. The Cougars’ 71-69 victory snapped UCLA’s 47-game winning streak and is fondly remembered as the “Game of the Century.”

Unmatched Collegiate Achievements

Throughout his college career, Elvin Hayes averaged an astounding 31.0 points per game and 17.2 rebounds per game. These statistics not only highlight his dominance on the court but also underscore his enduring legacy in college basketball.

A Unique Piece of Memorabilia

The jersey in question is a rare and exceptional piece of basketball memorabilia. Inside the rear collar is the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag with the jacket size “46,” accompanied by a partially detached blank white flag tag. The front of the jersey proudly displays the team city “HOUSTON,” while the back bears the player’s name “HAYES,” all crafted in red on blue tackle twill. This jersey exhibits excellent wear with staining throughout, yet it remains unaltered, preserving its authenticity.

• Historical Significance: Worn during a pivotal era in NCAA basketball history.
• Iconic Player: Represents Elvin Hayes, a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest college basketball players.
• Unique Provenance: The only known Hayes college item ever available to the public.
• Condition and Story: The wear and staining tell a story of intense competition and triumph.

Why This Jersey Matters

This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a tangible connection to a legendary career that redefined excellence in college basketball. It stands as a testament to Elvin Hayes’ indelible mark on the sport and his enduring legacy. For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a fragment of basketball history. If you have your own piece of history, consider reaching out to the sports memorabilia appraisal experts at Grey Flannel Auctions.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.