Circa 1975 Spirits of St. Louis ABA Player Worn Warm-Up Jacket

The St. Louis Spirits Jacket: A Rare Piece of ABA History

A Unique Legacy in Basketball

The St. Louis Spirits, a short-lived yet memorable franchise in the American Basketball Association (ABA), operated during the 1974-75 and 1975-76 seasons. Despite their brief existence, the Spirits left an indelible mark on basketball history, not least because of their distinctive team apparel. Among the most intriguing artifacts from this era is the interchangeable player jacket, a rarity in the world of sports memorabilia.

Distinctive Features of the Jacket

This particular jacket, originating from the ABA Spirits trainer, is a testament to the unique style of the team. Unlike typical sports jackets, the Spirits’ jackets were interchangeable and did not feature player numbers sewn or written on them. This design choice adds to the jacket’s allure and rarity, making it a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

• Manufacturer: The jacket features a “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag, complete with wash instructions and a size label “42”.
• Design: Across the back, “Spirits of St. Louis” is elegantly emblazoned in large silver sparkle on black tackle twill.
• Condition: The jacket shows signs of wear but remains unaltered, preserving its original authenticity.
• Provenance: Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from the Spirits trainer, further enhancing its historical value.

A Connection to Broadcasting Legend Bob Costas

Adding to the jacket’s storied past is its connection to renowned sports broadcaster Bob Costas, who served as the radio announcer for the Spirits on KMOX 1120 AM. Costas himself owns an exact duplicate of this jacket, underscoring its significance and the personal connection he maintains with the team. This link to Costas not only enriches the jacket’s narrative but also elevates its status among collectors of basketball memorabilia.

Why This Jacket Matters

The St. Louis Spirits jacket is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of a unique chapter in basketball history. Its rarity and connection to both the team and Bob Costas make it a highly desirable item for those passionate about sports memorabilia. As a piece that has never been seen with a player number in our 25 years of experience, it stands as a testament to the distinctiveness of the ABA era.

For collectors and enthusiasts looking to own a piece of this fascinating history, the St. Louis Spirits jacket represents an opportunity to acquire a truly unique artifact. Whether you’re interested in consigning sports memorabilia or simply wish to explore the rich tapestry of basketball’s past, this jacket is a remarkable addition to any collection.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.