1960 Jerry Lucas Ohio State University Worn Shooting Shirt

Jerry Lucas: A Legend in Basketball History

The Rise of a Basketball Icon

Jerry Lucas, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, was a prodigious talent from the outset. With over 150 athletic scholarships offered to him, Lucas had the luxury of choice. His decision to attend Ohio State University was driven by their emphasis on academics, a testament to his commitment both on and off the court. Lucas’s collegiate career was nothing short of extraordinary, earning him the title of Player of the Year in both 1961 and 1962. His prowess on the court led the Ohio State Buckeyes to an impressive 78-6 record over three years, a feat that remains unparalleled in the annals of college basketball.

A Storied Amateur Career

Lucas’s amateur career is a tapestry of triumphs. He clinched two Ohio high school championships and led his team to three NCAA Finals, securing one championship. His number “11” was immortalized by Ohio State University as the second uniform number to be retired, a fitting tribute to his indelible impact. Notably, Lucas is the only player in history to be named Big Ten MVP three times, a testament to his dominance in the sport.

The Ohio State Shooting Shirt

The Ohio State shooting shirt, a relic of Lucas’s illustrious career, is a piece of basketball memorabilia that commands reverence. Inside the rear collar is the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag with size “46”. A white label inside bears the number 34 crossed out and number 35 inscribed in black. The back proudly displays “OHIO STATE” in white on black tackle twill, while the left sleeve features the team disc patch with “The Ohio State University Buckeyes” embroidered in white chain stitch. This shooting shirt, presented to us as worn and in our opinion, shows wear, is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Jerry Lucas himself.

Why This Memorabilia Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents a pivotal era in college basketball history.
• Iconic Player: Worn by Jerry Lucas, one of the greatest basketball players in history.
• Unique Provenance: Accompanied by a hand-signed letter from Lucas and a Naismith Memorabilia Basketball Hall of Fame letter of authenticity.
• Condition and Story: The shirt’s wear tells a story of the intense games and victories it witnessed.

A Legacy of Championships

Jerry Lucas’s legacy extends beyond college basketball. He is one of only three players to win championships at every level: high school, college, NBA, and the Olympics. His NBA career was equally illustrious, being a 7-time All-Pro and the NBA All-Star Game MVP. Notably, he remains the only forward in league history to pull down 40 rebounds in a game. Lucas’s career culminated with the New York Knicks’ World Championship team in 1973. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1979.

This collection, presented at our 2013 Hall of Fame Induction Auction, is a celebration of Jerry Lucas’s unparalleled achievements. For those interested in acquiring a piece of this storied history, explore our sports memorabilia auctions and discover the treasures that await.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.