1988 University of Arizona Wildcats Team-Signed Basketball & McKale Center Court Base
(JSA)
1997-98 Pac-10 Champion Arizona Wildcats Signed Basketball
A Unique Piece of Basketball History
We are thrilled to present a remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia that captures the essence of collegiate basketball excellence. This “Wilson” manufactured “PRO 1000” model basketball is adorned with the signatures of 15 members of the illustrious 1997-98 Pac-10 Champion Arizona Wildcats. This item is not just a basketball; it is a testament to a team that left an indelible mark on the history of college basketball.
Signatures of Legends
The most distinguished signature on this basketball is that of Hall of Fame Head Coach Lute Olson, who has added a personal touch with the inscription, “To Michael: Happy Birthday from the 1988 Final Four Cats.” Olson’s accolades include being named the 1988 National Coach of the Year and Pac-10 Coach of the Year, underscoring his legendary status in the sport.
Other notable signatures include:
- Sean Elliott: Inscribed with “#32,” Elliott was the 1988 Pac-10 Player of the Year and a First Team All-American.
- Steve Kerr: Acknowledged as a 1988 First Team All-Pac-10 player.
- Anthony Cook: Inscribed with “#00,” also a 1988 First Team All-Pac-10 player.
- Kenny Lofton: Inscribed with “#11.”
- Craig McMillan: Inscribed with “#20.”
- Joe Turner: Inscribed with “#33.”
- Harvey Mason: Inscribed with “#44.”
- Brian David: Inscribed with “#34.”
- Tom Tolbert: Inscribed with “23.”
- Matt Muehlebach, Craig Bergman: Inscribed with “#31.”
- Mark Georgeson and Jud Buechler: Completing this historic collection of signatures.
Condition and Presentation
All signatures are executed in the same black marker and, in our opinion, rate a 7 overall. The basketball is elegantly displayed on a piece of hardwood from the “McKale Center Court – 1984-1998,” adding a tangible connection to the Wildcats’ home court. Adjacent to the left is an “ARIZONA” sticker, while to the right is an “ARIZONA WILDCATS 1997 MEN’S BASKETBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS” sticker, further enhancing its historical significance. The ball and center court are both in EX-NM condition overall, making this a pristine addition to any collection.
Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity
This extraordinary piece is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, ensuring its provenance and significance. For collectors and enthusiasts looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore our extensive range of sports memorabilia auctions, this basketball represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of basketball history.
Don’t miss the chance to add this exceptional item to your collection. Explore more of our basketball collections and discover the stories behind each artifact.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.