1996 USA Olympics “Dream Team III” Team-Signed Basketball
(JSA • Gold Medal Team)
The 1996 USA Olympic “Dream Team III” Signed Basketball
A Symbol of Basketball Excellence
In the realm of basketball memorabilia, few items capture the imagination quite like a piece associated with the legendary 1996 USA Olympic “Dream Team III.” This Spalding-manufactured basketball, adorned with the “NBA” stamp and the facsimile signature of Commissioner David Stern, is a testament to the pinnacle of basketball achievement. It is not merely a basketball; it is a canvas of history, graced by the signatures of 15 iconic members of this illustrious team.
Signatures of Legends
The ball features the autographs of some of the most revered figures in basketball history, including Hall of Famers such as:
- Hakeem Olajuwon
- Gary Payton with the inscription “#14”
- Mitch Richmond with the inscription “9”
- Karl Malone with the inscription “11”
- John Stockton with the inscription “12”
- Charles Barkley
- David Robinson with the inscriptions “50” and “Jer 29:11-13”
- Scottie Pippen
- Reggie Miller
- Coaches Lenny Wilkens and Jerry Sloan
Adding to its allure are the signatures of future Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal with the inscription “32”, Grant Hill, Penny Hardaway with the inscription “#6”, and coach Bobby Cremins. Each signature, rendered in black marker, is a tribute to the skill and dedication of these basketball titans.
Condition and Authenticity
The basketball is in Near Mint to Mint (NM-MNT) condition, a testament to its preservation and care over the years. Presented to us as game-used, the signatures, in our opinion, rate from a 6 to a 9, reflecting their clarity and legibility. This remarkable piece is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, ensuring its provenance and significance in the world of sports memorabilia auctions.
Why This Basketball Matters
This basketball is not just a collectible; it is a piece of history from the 1996 Olympics, where the “Dream Team III” continued the legacy of excellence established by their predecessors. The team, composed of NBA legends, dominated the competition and secured the gold medal, further solidifying the USA’s dominance in international basketball.
Owning this basketball is akin to possessing a fragment of basketball’s golden era, a time when the sport’s greatest players came together to represent their country on the world stage. It is an opportunity to own a piece of the legacy of players who have left an indelible mark on the game.
For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this basketball represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of history. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or add to your collection, this item is a must-have for any serious collector of NBA memorabilia.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.