1967-68 Connie Hawkins Inaugural ABA Season Rookie Pittsburgh Pipers Game-Used Home Jersey
(ROY, MVP & Championship Season)(Photomatch)(Sourced from the Trainer)
Connie Hawkins’ 1967-68 Pittsburgh Pipers Jersey: A Piece of Basketball History
An Iconic Season in the ABA
The 1967-68 season of the American Basketball Association (ABA) marked a significant chapter in basketball history, with Connie Hawkins leading the Pittsburgh Pipers to a remarkable 54-24 regular-season record. This season culminated in the Pipers clinching the 1968 ABA Championship, a testament to Hawkins’ extraordinary prowess on the court. As the league’s leading scorer, Hawkins not only dominated the regular season but also earned the prestigious titles of both the ABA’s regular-season and Playoff MVP. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 1992 further cements his legacy as one of basketball’s greats.
The Jersey: A Testament to Greatness
This exceptional jersey, worn by Connie Hawkins during that historic season, is a rare and valuable piece of basketball memorabilia. Inside the left rear tail, the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag proudly displays the jersey size “42”. Adjacent to it is a partially detached white label along with a wash instructions label. The front of the jersey features “Pipers” emblazoned across it, while the player number “42” graces both the front and back. These numbers and letters are crafted in vibrant orange on blue tackle twill, capturing the essence of the team’s colors.
- Player Name: “HAWKINS” appears on the back in orange tackle twill with a blue embroidered border on a white nameplate.
- Condition: The nameplate was restored by the team at that time, and the jersey remains in the same condition as when it left the locker room.
- Provenance: Accompanied by a letter from the family of Alex Medich, the Pipers’ trainer.
A Jersey with Provenance and Prestige
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of an era and a player’s indelible impact on the game. Presented to us as game-used, and in our opinion, it shows outstanding use, reflecting the intensity and dedication of Hawkins’ performance on the court. Other than the mentioned restoration, there appear to be no further alterations of any kind, preserving its authenticity and historical significance.
For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey offers a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of basketball history. It stands as a testament to Connie Hawkins’ exceptional career and the legacy he left behind. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this jersey is a must-have for those who appreciate the rich tapestry of basketball’s past.
Explore more about our basketball collections and discover the stories behind each piece. Whether you are looking to sell game-worn items or simply wish to delve into the world of appraising sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers unparalleled expertise and a passion for preserving the legacy of sports.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.