1970-71 “Pistol” Pete Maravich NBA Rookie Debut Atlanta Hawks Game-Used Jersey Originally Worn By Richie Guerin In 1969-70

A Legendary Jersey: Bridging Two Hall of Fame Careers

The Jersey’s Unique Journey

In the annals of basketball history, few jerseys can boast the illustrious journey of this particular #19 jersey. Worn by two legendary figures, Pete Maravich and Richie Guerin, this jersey is a testament to the rich legacy of the Atlanta Hawks. In the 1969-70 season, Richie Guerin donned this jersey, marking the end of his Hall of Fame career. That same offseason, the Hawks drafted the prodigious Pete Maravich, who would wear this very jersey during the 1970-71 preseason, a period that marked the beginning of his legendary career.

A Seamless Transition

The transition of this jersey from Guerin to Maravich was seamless, not only due to their similar stature but also because of the era’s practice of reusing jerseys for preseason games. This was particularly true for teams like the Hawks, who were aware of impending changes to their logo and colors at the start of the regular season. Thus, this jersey represents a unique intersection of two Hall of Fame careers, worn by the only two players in Hawks history to don #19 in this style.

Distinctive Features and Provenance

The jersey is a classic piece of basketball memorabilia, featuring the “HAWKS” name across the front and the number “19” on both the front and back, all crafted in light blue on red tackle twill. Inside, the Rawlings manufacturer’s tag indicates a size “42,” accompanied by a wash instructions tag. This jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion shows excellent use. Accompanying this lot is an oversized poster of Maravich, purportedly wearing this very jersey, adding a visual testament to its storied past.

Why This Jersey Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the end of Richie Guerin’s career and the beginning of Pete Maravich’s, two Hall of Famers.
• Unique Provenance: The only known jersey worn by both players, making it a rare collectible.
• Condition and Story: Accompanied by a LOA from Photo-Match.com, grading the jersey a perfect 10.
• Market Rarity: The first known Richie Guerin jersey to be auctioned, and possibly the most significant Maravich jersey available.

A Piece of Basketball History

This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a fragment of basketball history, embodying the legacies of two of the sport’s greatest players. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of the NBA’s storied past. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this jersey stands as a beacon of the rich history and enduring legacy of the game. If you are interested in consigning your own piece of history, consider reaching out to our consignment experts at Grey Flannel Auctions.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.