Lot of NCAA Awards presented to Derek Harper

Celebrating the Legacy of Derek Harper and the Fighting Illini

A Tribute to Excellence in College Basketball

The University of Illinois has long been a bastion of collegiate basketball excellence, and the memorabilia from the 1981-1982 season offers a glimpse into a storied past. Among these treasures is the Varsity Basketball Award, signed by the esteemed head coach Lou Henson, a figure synonymous with the Fighting Illini’s success. This award is not just a testament to the team’s achievements but also a symbol of Henson’s enduring legacy in college basketball.

Memorable Moments and Awards

The collection includes two Fighting Illini MVP Award Medals, commemorating pivotal games against Ohio State on February 14, 1981, and Purdue on February 28, 1981. These medals are a testament to the team’s competitive spirit and the individual brilliance that shone through during these encounters.

• Varsity Basketball Award: Signed by head coach Lou Henson, celebrating the 1981-1982 season.
• MVP Award Medals: Illinois vs. Ohio State (Feb. 14, 1981) and Illinois vs. Purdue (Feb. 28, 1981).
• Chevrolet Scholarship Program Awards: Recognizing outstanding performances against Michigan State University and the University of Michigan in 1983.

These awards are a testament to the players’ dedication and the strategic acumen of their coach, Lou Henson. They reflect the competitive edge and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defined the Fighting Illini during this era.

Derek Harper: A Record-Setting Legacy

Among the accolades is Derek Harper’s University of Illinois Most Valuable Player Award, celebrating his remarkable achievement of 18 consecutive field goals—a record that stands tall in both University of Illinois and Big 10 history. This wooden plaque, measuring 8” x 12”, is a cherished artifact, despite a minor scuff, and it encapsulates Harper’s precision and skill on the court.

Also included is a 5” x 7” wooden plaque awarded to members of the All-Tournament Team at the 1982 Fighting Illini Basketball Classic, further highlighting the team’s collective prowess and individual talents.

A Collector’s Dream

For enthusiasts of basketball memorabilia, these items represent a unique opportunity to own a piece of history from a golden era of college basketball. The awards and plaques not only commemorate individual and team achievements but also serve as a reminder of the rich heritage and tradition of the Fighting Illini.

Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore the vast array of sports memorabilia auctions, these items are a testament to the enduring allure of college basketball and the indelible mark left by legends like Derek Harper and Lou Henson.

Embrace the opportunity to own a fragment of this illustrious past and celebrate the legacy of the Fighting Illini with these exceptional collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.