1975-76 Freddie Lewis Spirits of St. Louis ABA Game-Used Road Jersey
(Trainer LOA) (Rare)
The Spirits of St. Louis: A Legacy in Basketball History
An Unpredictable Team with Unmatched Talent
The Spirits of St. Louis, a team that could have aptly been named the “Free Spirits,” were a unique and unpredictable force in the basketball world. Born in the summer of 1974, the team emerged after the Carolina Cougars franchise was sold to a group of New York businessmen who relocated the team to St. Louis. The Spirits quickly became known for their clever logo and classy uniforms, playing their home games in the 18,000-seat St. Louis Arena, also known as the “Checkerdome.”
Freddie Lewis: A Star Among Spirits
One of the standout players of the Spirits was Freddie Lewis, who achieved a career-high average of 22.6 points per game during the 1974–1975 season. His exceptional performance earned him the title of MVP at the 1975 ABA All-Star Game. The jersey in question, a rare piece of basketball memorabilia, originates from the trainer of the ABA Spirits and is a testament to Lewis’s remarkable career.
Details of the Jersey
This extraordinary jersey is marked by its distinctive features:
- Manufacturer: The right front tail bears the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, complete with wash instructions and a jersey size of “42”.
- Design: The front of the jersey proudly displays the team name “Spirits St. Louis,” while the player number “14” is prominently featured on both the front and back.
- Player Name: The name “LEWIS” is sewn directly onto the back of the jersey, crafted in white on black tackle twill.
- Condition: The jersey shows good game-use and appears to have no alterations of any kind.
This jersey is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from the Spirits trainer, further enhancing its value and significance.
A Piece of Basketball History
The Spirits of St. Louis may have had a brief existence, but their impact on the basketball world is undeniable. This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of a team that captured the essence of unpredictability and talent. It represents a moment in time when the Spirits, with their youthful exuberance, left an indelible mark on the ABA.
For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. It stands as a testament to the legacy of the Spirits and the remarkable career of Freddie Lewis. If you are interested in exploring more sports memorabilia or wish to consign sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports memorabilia auctions.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.