This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 9/7/2013.
The Pipers are most known for having played in the short-lived American Basketball League (ABL) from 1961-62, arguably as that brief pro league's pivotal franchise. General Manager, Mike Cleary hired John McLendon, the first African American head coach in professional basketball, to lead the squad. Playing under Coach John McLendon, and later coach Bill Sharman, the team won the league's 1962 championship, the only full season the league would ever have. The team had a number of interesting and notable moments. Future baseball legend George Steinbrenner got his start in professional sports ownership with the Pipers, which he bought from plumbing business owner Ed Sweeny to enter into the new ABL. Inside the front zipper is the “Blepp-Coombs” manufacturer’s tag. Adjacent is a white label with “J.D.” written in black marker. On the left chest is a large “Piper” patch beautifully embroidered in white and red chain stitch on white and black tackle twill. The cape is missing from the back. Inside the rear waistband of the matching orange fleece pants is the “Blepp-Coombs” tag. Below is a white flag tag with the description of the material. There is a tag removed. The warm-up suit is properly tagged, was presented to us as worn and in our opinion, shows wear. Other than what is mentioned, there appear to be no further alterations of any kind.