1973 Jerry Lucas New York Knicks World Championship Ring

Jerry Lucas’s 1973 NBA Championship Ring: A Testament to Greatness

A Historic Season for the New York Knicks

The 1972-73 New York Knicks season was a remarkable chapter in the annals of basketball history. With a stellar regular season record of 57-25, the Knicks secured a 2-seed in the playoffs, setting the stage for a thrilling postseason journey. The team, led by the legendary Jerry Lucas and Earl Monroe, faced the Baltimore Bullets in the first round, a team that had previously dashed their championship hopes two seasons earlier. However, the Knicks were determined to rewrite history, dominating the series and advancing to face the Boston Celtics in a rematch of the 1972 Eastern Conference Finals.

In a series that tested their mettle, the Knicks overcame a crushing 26-point loss in Game 1 to rally and win three consecutive games. The series culminated in a historic Game 7 victory at the Boston Garden, where the Knicks became the first team to defeat the Celtics in such a decisive game on their home court. This triumph set the stage for the NBA World Championship showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers, where the Knicks emerged victorious, claiming their second franchise championship and securing Jerry Lucas’s first and only NBA title.

The Championship Ring: A Symbol of Triumph

This exquisite size 12.5, 14k gold player’s ring, weighing 40 grams, was presented to Jerry Lucas following the Knicks’ 1973 NBA Championship victory. The top panel proudly displays “NBA WORLD CHAMPIONS” in relief, encircling a silver basketball adorned with a roughly .75-carat stone at its center. The right panel features “J. LUCAS” above “NY-4, LA-1,” accompanied by the Knicks logo, the facade of Madison Square Garden, and the word “DEFENSE.” On the left panel, “1973” is etched in relief around the official NBA logo. The inside of the ring is stamped “BALFOUR 14K,” attesting to its authenticity and craftsmanship.

• Historical Significance: Commemorates the Knicks’ second NBA Championship and Jerry Lucas’s only title.
• Exquisite Craftsmanship: Crafted in 14k gold with a .75-carat stone centerpiece.
• Unique Provenance: Accompanied by a hand-signed letter from Jerry Lucas and a Naismith Memorabilia Basketball Hall of Fame letter of authenticity.
• Condition: The ring is in NRMT (Near Mint) condition, preserving its original luster and detail.

Jerry Lucas: A Legend in Basketball

Jerry Lucas’s illustrious career is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. As one of only three players in history to win championships at every level—high school, college, NBA, and Olympics—Lucas’s legacy is unparalleled. Named one of the Top Fifty players in NBA history and one of the Top 15 All-Time March Madness Players, his contributions to the game are celebrated and revered. A 7-time All-Pro and NBA All-Star Game MVP, Lucas remains the only forward in league history to record 40 rebounds in a single game. His induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1979 further cements his status as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

We are honored to present this extraordinary collection at our basketball memorabilia auctions, where enthusiasts and collectors alike can acquire a piece of basketball history. For those looking to consign sports memorabilia or sell NBA jerseys, Grey Flannel Auctions offers unparalleled expertise and service. Explore our sports memorabilia auctions to discover more iconic pieces that celebrate the rich legacy of the game.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.