1958-59 Wichita Vickers NIBL Worn Fleece Warm-Up Suit

The Wichita Vickers Warm-Up Suit: A Testament to Basketball History

A Glimpse into the National Industrial Basketball League

Founded in 1947, the National Industrial Basketball League (NIBL) offered mill workers a unique opportunity to showcase their basketball prowess. This league was a haven for industrial teams, sponsored by large companies, that chose not to join the National Basketball Association (NBA) following the merger of the National Basketball League (NBL) with the Basketball Association of America. Among these teams, the Wichita Vickers emerged as a formidable force during the 1957-58 season, tying with the Phillips 66ers for the league title, each boasting an impressive 21-9 record.

The Wichita Vickers Warm-Up Suit: A Piece of Basketball Memorabilia

The Wichita Vickers warm-up suit is a remarkable artifact from this era, embodying the spirit and history of the NIBL. The suit features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag inside the front button path, accompanied by the “Wichita Sporting Goods” distributor’s tag and an unreadable white label. A one-inch hole inside the rear collar adds a touch of character to this vintage piece. The left chest proudly displays the “AAU Champion” embroidered patch, while the back showcases the large “VICKERS” embroidered patch.

The matching red fleece pants are equally significant, with the same three tags inside the rear waistband: “Rawlings” with size “36”, “Wichita Sporting Goods”, and a blank white tag. This warm-up suit is properly tagged, was presented to us as worn and in our opinion, shows wear.

Why This Warm-Up Suit Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the Wichita Vickers’ remarkable 1957-58 season in the NIBL.
• Unique Provenance: A rare piece from a league that provided a platform for industrial teams.
• Condition and Story: The wear and tear tell a story of the era and the players who donned this suit.

A Legacy of Industrial Basketball

The Wichita Vickers warm-up suit is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of a bygone era in basketball history. This artifact offers a glimpse into the world of industrial basketball, where teams like the Vickers competed with passion and determination. As part of our basketball memorabilia auctions, this warm-up suit stands as a testament to the rich history of the sport.

For those interested in exploring more about the fascinating world of sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions provides a platform to consign sports memorabilia and sell game-worn items. Our auctions are a celebration of the stories and achievements that have shaped the world of sports. Whether you are a collector or simply a fan of basketball history, this warm-up suit is a piece of history worth cherishing.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.