1974-75 Spirits of St. Louis Worn Warm-Up Jacket with Pants Attributed to Gene Moore

Spirits of St. Louis Jacket and Pants: A Rare Piece of Basketball History

Introduction to a Unique Artifact

In the realm of basketball memorabilia, certain items stand out not only for their historical significance but also for their unique stories. The Spirits of St. Louis jacket and pants set is one such artifact, offering a glimpse into the vibrant history of the American Basketball Association (ABA) during the mid-1970s. This ensemble, adorned with the iconic “Spirits of St. Louis” insignia, is a testament to the dynamic and colorful era of the ABA.

Details of the Jacket and Pants

The jacket, a striking piece of sportswear, features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag inside the front snaps, complete with wash instructions and a jacket size of “42”. A white label attached to the jacket reads “4” LONGER”, indicating its custom fit. Notably, the numbers “54” and “12” are hand-written in black marker, signifying its use by two different players: Gene Moore, who wore number “54” during the 1974-75 season, and Don Chaney, who donned number “12” in the following 1975-76 season when the jacket was recycled.

Across the back of the jacket, the words “Spirits of St. Louis” are beautifully rendered in large silver sparkle on black tackle twill, capturing the flamboyant spirit of the ABA. The accompanying grey pants also bear the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, with wash instructions and a size of “38”. A white label indicates a “35” INSEAM”, and several numbers have been written and crossed out in black marker, further attesting to its storied past.

Historical Significance and Provenance

• Team Legacy: The Spirits of St. Louis were a short-lived yet memorable team in the ABA, known for their exciting style of play and colorful personalities.
• Player Connection: The jacket’s association with players like Gene Moore and Don Chaney adds a layer of personal history and intrigue.
• Unique Design: The silver sparkle lettering and tackle twill design are emblematic of the ABA’s flair and creativity.
• Condition and Wear: The jacket and pants are properly tagged, were presented to us as worn and in our opinion, show wear, indicating their authentic use in the game.

Why This Set Matters

This jacket and pants set is not just a piece of clothing; it is a fragment of basketball history, capturing the essence of a bygone era. The ABA was known for its innovative approach to the game, and the Spirits of St. Louis were a quintessential representation of that spirit. For collectors and enthusiasts, this set offers a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of that legacy.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this sports memorabilia item is a must-have for anyone looking to deepen their connection to the history of basketball. If you have similar items to share, consider our consignment services to bring your treasures to the world.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.