Circa 1960 Lenny Wilkens Rookie Era St. Louis Hawks Worn Warm-Up Jacket
(Player LOA • Only Known Example • HoF LOA)
A Legendary Warm-Up Jacket: A Testament to Basketball History
Worn by Hall of Fame Legends
This extraordinary warm-up jacket is a rare and historic piece of basketball memorabilia, having been worn by not one, but two Hall of Famers: Lenny Wilkens and Slater Martin. Each of these iconic players donned this jacket during their tenure with the St. Louis Hawks, marking it as a significant artifact in the annals of basketball history.
A Journey Through Time
The jacket’s storied past begins with Slater Martin, who wore it during the 1959-60 season. It was then passed on to Lenny Wilkens, who wore it in his rookie season of 1960-61. Finally, the jacket was worn by Cleo Hill in the 1961-62 season, whose Letter of Authenticity (LOA) accompanies this remarkable piece. This jacket is not just a garment; it is a tapestry of basketball history, woven with the achievements and legacies of these legendary players.
Distinctive Features and Provenance
Inside the rear collar, the jacket proudly displays the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, indicating a size “42”. Across the back, “Hawks” is emblazoned in white and blue tackle twill, a testament to the team’s proud heritage. Inside the left front button path, the names “MARTIN” and “WILKENS” are inscribed in black marker, while “HILL” is marked on the right inner button path, signifying the third Hawks player to wear this incredible jacket.
- Historical Significance: Worn by Hall of Famers Lenny Wilkens and Slater Martin.
- Unique Provenance: Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Cleo Hill.
- Distinctive Markings: Features names of the players who wore it, adding to its authenticity.
- Condition: The warm-up is properly tagged, presented to us as worn and in our opinion, shows wear.
A Piece of Basketball Legacy
This jacket is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of the rich history and legacy of the St. Louis Hawks. It represents the dedication and talent of the players who wore it, each contributing to the team’s storied past. For collectors and enthusiasts, this jacket offers a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of basketball history.
As a part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this jacket stands out as a testament to the enduring legacy of the NBA and its legendary players. Whether you are looking to sell your own sports memorabilia or simply wish to add this exceptional piece to your collection, this jacket is a must-have for any serious basketball aficionado.
Explore more about our consignment opportunities and discover the stories behind other iconic pieces in our collection. This jacket is not just a part of basketball history; it is a celebration of the sport’s greatest moments and the legends who made them possible.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.