1951 Long Island University “Point Shaving Scandal” & 1948-49 New York Knicks Team Signed Basketball

A Historic Basketball Relic: The 1948-49 New York Knicks and LIU Signed Ball

An Unparalleled Piece of Basketball Memorabilia

In the realm of basketball memorabilia, few items capture the essence of history and intrigue like this Rawlings AXH Official basketball. Signed by ten members of the 1948-49 New York Knicks and fifteen members of the Long Island University (LIU) basketball program, this ball is a testament to a bygone era of the sport.

New York Knicks Signatures

The New York Knicks, a team synonymous with the heart and soul of basketball, are well-represented on this ball. Among the illustrious signatures are:

• Harry Gallatin: A Hall of Famer known for his tenacity and skill on the court.
• Sidney Tannenbaum: A player whose contributions to the Knicks are fondly remembered.
• Bud Palmer: Notably inscribed with “Capt.” to signify his leadership role.
• Carl Braun, Tommy Byrnes, Paul Noel, Lee Knorek, Irv Rothenberg, Tex Ritter, and Mel McGaha: Each leaving their mark on this historic artifact.

These signatures are a window into the past, offering a glimpse of the team dynamics and personalities that shaped the Knicks during this pivotal season.

Long Island University and the Point-Shaving Scandal

The ball also bears the signatures of fifteen members of the LIU basketball program, including seven players embroiled in the infamous point-shaving scandal. This scandal rocked the basketball world, casting a shadow over the sport. Among the signatories are:

• Sherman White: A standout player who faced incarceration for his involvement.
• Adolph Bigos, Dick Feurtado, Eddie Gard, Lou Lipman, Nat Miller, and LeRoy Smith: All implicated in the scandal, their signatures serve as a poignant reminder of the event.

Other LIU signatures include Sam Tolkoff, Herb Scherer, Jack French, Irv Horn, Tom Murtha, Eddie Anderson, Barry Arelson (with a “Trainer” inscription), and Buck Lai (Athletic Director). These names collectively tell a story of triumph, controversy, and redemption.

Condition and Significance

The ball itself is in excellent condition, with most signatures rating between 7 and 9. It features several notches carved into one side, forming “LIU,” adding a unique touch to its provenance. This basketball is not just a piece of sports history; it is a narrative of New York’s rich basketball heritage.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this item represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that intertwines the legacies of the New York Knicks and LIU basketball. Its significance is further enhanced by the stories of the players whose names it bears, making it a coveted addition to any basketball collection.

Explore more of our basketball memorabilia auctions to discover other extraordinary artifacts that celebrate the sport’s storied past.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.