1972-73 Gus Johnson Indiana Pacers ABA Championship Ring
Gus Johnson’s 1973 ABA Championship Ring: A Testament to Basketball Excellence
A Legendary Career
Gus Johnson, an illustrious figure in basketball history, was drafted by the Baltimore Bullets as the tenth overall pick in the 1963 NBA Draft. His remarkable talent was immediately recognized as he was elected to the 1964 NBA All-Rookie First Team. Over his career, Johnson became a five-time NBA All-Star, showcasing his prowess on the court. His journey in professional basketball took a significant turn when he joined the Indiana Pacers for the 1972-73 season, contributing his veteran experience to their third ABA Championship victory.
The Championship Ring: A Symbol of Triumph
This exquisite size 9.5, 10k gold player’s ring, weighing 26 grams, is a tangible symbol of Gus Johnson’s contributions to the Indiana Pacers’ success. The top panel of the ring proudly reads “ABA WORLD CHAMPIONS”, encircling an oval globe adorned with three round-cut diamonds. The centerpiece diamond is a striking .40-carats, flanked by two .15-carat stones, culminating in a total diamond weight of approximately .70-carats.
Intricate Details and Historical Significance
- Player Recognition: The left panel features a banner engraved with the player name “JOHNSON” above the Indiana Pacers logo and the player number “25”.
- Commemorative Imagery: The right panel showcases a scoreboard with the final score of Game 7 of the 1973 ABA Finals, “88-81”, alongside the ABA logo and an image of a Pacers player in action.
- Championship Legacy: The years “70”, “72”, and “73” are engraved, celebrating the Pacers’ three ABA Championships, with the date of Game 7, “May 12”, also inscribed.
The inside of the ring is stamped with “HERFF JONES HJ 10K”, indicating its authenticity and craftsmanship. The ring remains in NRMT condition, exhibiting some wear from regular use, a testament to its storied past.
A Piece of Basketball History
This championship ring is not merely a piece of jewelry; it is a fragment of basketball history, encapsulating the triumphs and legacy of Gus Johnson and the Indiana Pacers. For collectors and enthusiasts, this ring represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of the ABA’s storied past. Explore more about such basketball memorabilia and discover the rich history behind each artifact.
At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are proud to offer this extraordinary piece as part of our sports memorabilia auctions. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or consign game-worn items, our platform provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with fellow collectors and enthusiasts.
Join us in celebrating the legacy of Gus Johnson and the Indiana Pacers by participating in our upcoming basketball auctions. This ring is not just a collectible; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of basketball excellence.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.