Circa 1973 ABA Virginia Squires Worn Warm-Up Jacket Attributed to Jim Eakins/William Franklin
(Only One Known • HoF LOA)
Virginia Squires Jacket: A Unique Piece of Basketball History
An Exquisite Artifact from the ABA Era
Step back in time to the vibrant days of the American Basketball Association with this remarkable Virginia Squires jacket. This piece is a testament to the rich history and colorful legacy of the ABA, a league that brought innovation and excitement to the world of basketball. The jacket, adorned with distinctive features, is a rare find for any basketball memorabilia collector.
Distinctive Features and Craftsmanship
Inside the rear collar, the jacket proudly displays the “Pearson” manufacturer’s tag, a hallmark of quality and authenticity. The left chest is graced with the large “Squire” patch, beautifully embroidered in red and blue chain stitch on white tackle twill, capturing the essence of the team’s identity. Across the back, “VIRGINIA” is boldly emblazoned in red on white tackle twill block letters, a striking representation of the team’s spirit.
- Manufacturer’s Tag: Pearson tag inside the collar.
- Embroidered Patch: “Squire” patch in red and blue chain stitch.
- Team Name: “VIRGINIA” in red on white tackle twill.
- Number Details: Number “2” on the left sleeve, with traces of a removed number.
A Glimpse into the Past
The left sleeve of the jacket features the number “2”, crafted in red on white tackle twill. Intriguingly, there is evidence of a second number that has been removed, likely a “3” or a “5”, based on the outline that remains. This detail adds a layer of mystery and allure to the jacket, inviting speculation about its past wearers. During this era, uniform number “25” was worn by Jim Eakins, while number “23” was donned by William Franklin, both notable figures in the ABA.
Condition and Provenance
The jacket is in excellent condition, with a fully functional zipper and no further alterations beyond what is mentioned. Presented to us as worn, it shows appropriate wear, adding to its authenticity and charm. This piece is a must-have for those looking to consign sports memorabilia or expand their collection with a unique artifact from basketball’s storied past.
For those interested in acquiring this exceptional piece, it represents not just a jacket, but a fragment of basketball history. The Virginia Squires jacket is a symbol of the ABA’s enduring legacy and the vibrant culture that defined an era. Explore more about our sports memorabilia auctions and discover the stories behind each item.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.