1996-1997 Charles Barkley Houston Rockets Worn Home Warm-Up Jacket

Charles Barkley’s Houston Rockets Warm-Up Jacket: A Piece of NBA History

A Legendary Transition

In the 1996–97 NBA season, the legendary Charles Barkley made a significant move to the Houston Rockets, joining forces with fellow Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. This transition marked a new chapter in Barkley’s illustrious career, as he became the team’s second-leading scorer, averaging an impressive 19.2 points per game on .484 shooting. His focus on rebounding was evident, as he averaged 13.5 rebounds per game, the second-best of his career. The Rockets, with Barkley’s contributions, ended the regular season with a formidable 57–25 record, advancing to the Western Conference Finals.

The Jacket’s Unique Features

This exceptional warm-up jacket, worn by Barkley during his tenure with the Rockets, is a testament to his enduring legacy. The jacket is adorned with the “Champion” manufacturer’s size 52 tag, complete with wash instructions. Notably, the player number “4” is inscribed in black marker on the tag, adding a personal touch to this historic piece. Adjacent to this is the “CHAMPION” exclusive tag, which reads, “Designed & Tailored Exclusively for Houston Rockets BODY LENGTH +4 SLEEVE LENGTH 0”.

• Team Embroidery: The left breast proudly displays the “Rockets” team embroidered logo patch.
• Commemorative Patch: The right sleeve features the “NBA 50th Anniversary” patch, celebrating a milestone in the league’s history.
• Team Branding: Across the back, “ROCKETS” is emblazoned with the team logo, showcasing the jacket’s authenticity.

Provenance and Condition

This jacket was originally acquired as part of a large private collection of Houston Rockets jerseys and warm-ups, sourced from a former equipment manager’s family. The jacket shows wear, indicative of its use during Barkley’s time with the team, and appears to have no alterations of any kind. This piece is not just a garment; it is a fragment of basketball history, representing a pivotal era for both Barkley and the Rockets.

For those interested in acquiring a piece of basketball history, this jacket is a remarkable addition to any basketball memorabilia collection. It stands as a testament to Barkley’s impact on the game and his enduring legacy. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this jacket offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of the NBA’s storied past.

Explore more about our sports memorabilia auctions and discover other iconic items that capture the essence of sports history. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share your treasures with the world. For those looking to sell game-worn items, our platform offers a trusted avenue to reach passionate collectors.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.