1/17/1964 Philadelphia 76ers vs. San Francisco Warriors Multi-Signed Program with Chamberlain Handwritten Notes Regarding “20,000 Women” Fallout
(2)(JSA • BBHoF LOA)
The Spirit of 76’ers: A Historic Program from January 17, 1964
A Glimpse into Basketball History
Step back in time to January 17, 1964, when the Philadelphia 76ers faced off against the San Francisco Warriors, a game immortalized in the annals of basketball history. The program from this iconic matchup is not just a piece of paper; it is a treasure trove of signatures from some of the most legendary figures in the sport. This program, signed by players and coaches from both teams, is a testament to the rich heritage of the NBA.
Signatures of Legends
The back cover of this program boasts the autographs of Hall of Famers Wilt Chamberlain and Nate Thurmond, two giants of the game whose contributions to basketball are immeasurable. Additional signatures include Al Attles, Jerry Greenspan, Hubie White, Ken Sears, and Guy Rodgers, each adding their unique mark to this historic document. Inside, the unused box score page is adorned with the signatures of Dolph Schayes, Alex Hannum (coach), and Tom Meschery, all penned in blue ink, which in our opinion, rate a 7 overall.
Condition and Provenance
While the program is in good condition, it does show signs of its storied past. There is some blue ink spatter near Greenspan’s signature, and the cover has come loose from its staples. Despite these minor imperfections, the program remains a cherished artifact, accompanied by a letter from Janice L. Marturano, Senior Corporate Counsel for Nabisco, Inc., dated February 10, 1992. This letter, addressed to Seymour Goldberg, Wilt Chamberlain’s attorney, details the termination of an endorsement deal following Chamberlain’s controversial claim in his autobiography.
Chamberlain’s Controversial Claim
In his 1991 autobiography, “A View From Above,” Wilt Chamberlain made the sensational claim of having slept with 20,000 women, a statement that led to the termination of his endorsement deal with Nabisco. The letter includes Chamberlain’s handwritten notes in the margins, offering a glimpse into his perspective on the situation. Despite some staining and creasing, the letter is in good condition and adds an intriguing layer to the program’s provenance.
Why This Program Matters
- Historical Significance: Captures a pivotal moment in NBA history with signatures from legendary players.
- Unique Provenance: Accompanied by a letter detailing a significant event in Wilt Chamberlain’s life.
- Condition and Story: Despite minor imperfections, the program tells a compelling story of basketball’s golden era.
This program is not just a piece of basketball memorabilia; it is a window into the past, a celebration of the sport’s rich history, and a testament to the enduring legacy of its greatest players. For those looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore more appraisals of NBA items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers unparalleled expertise and a passion for preserving the stories behind these remarkable artifacts.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.