1997 Dave Debusschere New York Knicks 50 Greatest Jacket

A Commemorative Tribute: The NBA’s 50th Anniversary Jacket

Celebrating Half a Century of Basketball Excellence

In 1996, the National Basketball Association (NBA) marked its 50th anniversary with a grand celebration that honored the league’s most illustrious players. This momentous occasion saw the unveiling of the “50 Greatest Players in NBA History,” a tribute to the legends who shaped the game. The announcement, made by Commissioner David Stern at the historic Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City, was a nod to the league’s origins, as the original NBA charter was signed at the same location, then known as the Commodore Hotel, in 1946.

The Exclusive Jeff Hamilton Jacket

Among the commemorative items created for this celebration was a limited edition leather jacket, designed by the renowned Jeff Hamilton. This jacket, crafted for the legendary Dave DeBusschere, is a testament to the artistry and exclusivity of basketball memorabilia. Although it was not worn during the ceremony at the 1997 All-Star Game Weekend in Cleveland, it remains a cherished piece of history.

• Design and Craftsmanship: The jacket features the NBA “50th” Anniversary logo on the left breast, a symbol of the league’s storied past. The left sleeve bears the “JH Design” leather patch, while the right sleeve proudly displays DeBusschere’s player number “22” in vibrant orange on blue leather patches.
• Limited Edition: Inside the jacket, a leather patch reads, “This is a Limited Edition of 50 Jackets designed by Jeff Hamilton commissioned by the National Basketball Association in Honor of the Fifty Greatest Players in the History of the League February 9, 1997 Jeff Hamilton.” This inscription, signed by Jeff Hamilton himself, underscores the jacket’s rarity and significance.
• Team Pride: Across the back, “KNICKS” is emblazoned in orange on white leather patches, celebrating DeBusschere’s indelible impact on the New York Knicks franchise.

A Provenance of Distinction

This remarkable jacket is accompanied by an iron-clad letter of provenance from our consignor, ensuring its authenticity and historical value. Such provenance is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts who seek to own a piece of basketball history. For those interested in exploring more about basketball memorabilia, our basketball memorabilia auctions offer a treasure trove of iconic items.

At Grey Flannel Auctions, we take pride in offering exclusive opportunities to consign sports memorabilia and sell game-worn items. Our expertise in appraising NBA jerseys and other sports artifacts ensures that each piece is presented with the reverence it deserves.

In acquiring this Jeff Hamilton jacket, one is not merely obtaining a garment but a symbol of the NBA’s rich legacy and the enduring impact of its greatest players. This jacket is a celebration of basketball’s past and a testament to the timeless allure of the sport.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.