Circa 1959 Clyde Lovellette St. Louis Hawks Worn Durene Shooting Shirt
(Only Known Example)
Clyde Lovellette’s St. Louis Hawks Shooting Shirt: A Unique Piece of Basketball History
An Icon of Basketball Legacy
In the annals of basketball history, few players have achieved the remarkable feats of Clyde Lovellette. As the first player to have graced the courts of NCAA, Olympic, AAU, and NBA champion teams, Lovellette’s legacy is etched in the fabric of the sport. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1988, his contributions to basketball are both profound and enduring.
In 1952, Lovellette led the nation in scoring, earning the prestigious titles of Helms Foundation Player of the Year and NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player, alongside clinching the NCAA championship. His prowess on the court was unparalleled, and his influence continues to resonate through the generations.
The Shooting Shirt: A Rare Artifact
This extraordinary shooting shirt, acquired directly from the locker room in Minneapolis, stands as a testament to Lovellette’s illustrious career. The shirt features a “Rawlings” size “48” manufacturer’s tag inside the rear collar, and a white felt strip tag inside the center tail, embroidered with “Lovellette” in red stitching. Across the front, the word “HAWKS” is emblazoned, while “ST. LOUIS” adorns the back, both crafted in red tackle twill sewn directly onto the fabric.
- Historical Significance: Represents Clyde Lovellette’s tenure with the St. Louis Hawks, a pivotal era in his career.
- Unique Provenance: Acquired directly from the locker room, adding authenticity and allure.
- Exclusivity: The only known example of this style, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
- Condition: Properly tagged and presented to us as player-worn, showing appropriate use.
A Legacy Preserved
This shooting shirt is not merely a piece of fabric; it is a fragment of basketball history, encapsulating the spirit and achievements of Clyde Lovellette. As a rare artifact, it holds immense value for collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a tangible connection to the golden era of basketball.
For those interested in acquiring such unique pieces, our basketball memorabilia auctions offer an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of history. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this shooting shirt represents a chance to celebrate the legacy of one of basketball’s greats.
If you have your own piece of history, consider reaching out to our experts for appraisals or to consign sports memorabilia. At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich tapestry of sports history, ensuring that these remarkable artifacts continue to inspire and captivate future generations.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.