Circa 1975 Maurice Lucas Rookie Era Spirits of St. Louis Game-Used & Autographed Road Jersey

Mo Lucas’s Game-Worn Jersey: A Piece of ABA History

The Rise of Mo Lucas in Professional Basketball

In the annals of basketball history, Maurice “Mo” Lucas stands as a towering figure, both literally and figuratively. Drafted in 1973 by the Carolina Cougars of the American Basketball Association (ABA), Lucas’s journey in professional basketball began with a significant choice. In 1974, he was also selected by the Chicago Bulls in the NBA draft. However, Lucas chose to align his talents with the ABA, joining the Spirits of St. Louis, a team that had taken the place of the Carolina Cougars.

During his inaugural season, Lucas made an indelible mark, averaging an impressive 13.2 points and 10 rebounds per game. His stellar performance earned him a spot on the 1974–75 ABA All-Rookie second team, a testament to his burgeoning prowess on the court.

A Jersey with Legacy and Provenance

This particular jersey, a relic from Lucas’s time with the Spirits of St. Louis, is a remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia. The jersey is adorned with the team name “Spirits of St. Louis” across the front, while the player number “20” graces both the front and back. The name “LUCAS” is emblazoned on the back, all crafted in white on black tackle twill.

• Manufacturer’s Tag: The right front tail features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, complete with wash instructions and a jersey size of “44”.
• Player’s Signature: Adding to its allure, Lucas has signed the front in black marker, inscribing “To My Friend Jack,” with the signature rating a 7.
• Game-Used Assurance: The jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion, shows excellent use.
• Accompanied by LOA: This piece is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further cementing its authenticity and value.

The Significance of Mo Lucas’s Jersey

This jersey is more than just a garment; it is a tangible connection to a pivotal era in basketball history. Mo Lucas’s decision to join the ABA over the NBA was a defining moment, and this jersey symbolizes that choice. It represents not only Lucas’s personal achievements but also the rich history of the ABA, a league that played a crucial role in shaping modern basketball.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of basketball history. It is a testament to Lucas’s impact on the game and the enduring legacy of the ABA. As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this jersey stands as a beacon of the past, inviting admirers to celebrate the achievements of a true basketball legend.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this jersey is a must-have addition to any basketball collection. Its historical significance and unique provenance make it an invaluable piece of sports history, worthy of admiration and preservation.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.