1968-69 Minnesota Pipers ABA Worn Shooting Shirt

The Minnesota Pipers Shooting Shirt: A Rare Piece of Basketball History

A Storied Beginning in the ABA

The Pittsburgh Pipers made an indelible mark in the annals of basketball history by clinching the first-ever ABA Championship in the league’s inaugural 1967-68 season. This triumph set the stage for their unexpected relocation to Minneapolis, where they became the Minnesota Pipers. This move was orchestrated by Bill Erickson, a 38-year-old Minneapolis businessman and attorney, who acquired a majority interest in the team, bringing them to the Midwest.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Design

The Minnesota Pipers shooting shirt is a testament to the craftsmanship and design of the era. Inside the rear collar, the shirt proudly displays the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, indicating a size “48”. A partially detached white flag tag accompanies it, while a wash instructions label is nestled within the seam. The front of the shirt features a large patch with “PIPERS” emblazoned in vibrant orange tackle twill, and “MINNESOTA ABA CHAMPIONS” elegantly embroidered in blue chain stitch, all set against a striking blue and white tackle twill background. The back of the shirt showcases “pipers” in blue on white tackle twill, completing this remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia.

Authenticity and Provenance

This shooting shirt is not just a garment; it is a piece of history. Presented to us as worn, it exudes authenticity and, in our opinion, shows outstanding wear. Such provenance adds to its allure, making it a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

• Historical Significance: Represents the Minnesota Pipers’ brief yet impactful presence in the ABA.
• Unique Design: Features intricate embroidery and tackle twill, characteristic of the era.
• Provenance: Presented to us as worn, adding to its authenticity and value.
• Collector’s Item: A rare find for those passionate about basketball history.

Why This Shooting Shirt Matters

The Minnesota Pipers shooting shirt is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of a unique chapter in basketball history. The Pipers’ journey from Pittsburgh to Minneapolis and their subsequent achievements in the ABA are encapsulated in this garment. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning such a piece is akin to possessing a fragment of basketball’s rich tapestry.

Explore more about this and other basketball memorabilia in our auctions. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share it with the world. For those interested in acquiring or appraising game-worn items, Grey Flannel Auctions stands as a beacon of trust and authenticity in the realm of sports memorabilia auctions.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.