This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/1/2011.
This Rawlings AXH Official basketball has been signed by ten members of the 1948-49 New York Knicks and 15 members of the Long Island University basketball program, including seven players involved in LIU’s infamous point-shaving scandal. The Knicks featured on the ball are Harry Gallatin (HoFer), Sidney Tannenbaum, Bud Palmer (“Capt.” inscription), Carl Braun, Tommy Byrnes, Paul Noel, Lee Knorek, Irv Rothenberg, Tex Ritter and Mel McGaha. The LIU players featured on this ball include Sherman White, Adolph Bigos, Dick Feurtado, Eddie Gard, Lou Lipman, Nat Miller, LeRoy Smith who were all involved in point-shaving during their time playing for LIU. Sherman White was sentenced to serve on year in prison, he spent nine months incarcerated at Riker’s Island while the rest of the players received suspended sentences. The other LIU signatures include Sam Tolkoff, Herb Scherer, Jack French, Irv Horn, Tom Murtha, Eddie Anderson, Barry Arelson (“Trainer” inscription) and Buck Lai (Athletic Director). All of the signatures are done in black ink. On one side of the ball are several notches that have been carved forming “LIU”. Most of the signatures rate from 7-9, the ball is in excellent condition with light wear. A true piece of New York basketball history.