Mid 1960s Ed McKee Akron Goodyears NIBL Player-Worn Warm-Up Jacket

National Industrial Basketball League Warm-Up Jacket: A Piece of Basketball Heritage

Historical Context and Significance

Founded in 1947, the National Industrial Basketball League (NIBL) was a pioneering organization that provided a platform for mill workers across the United States to showcase their basketball talents. As the league evolved, it became a cornerstone in the history of American basketball, eventually reorganizing into the National Alliance of Basketball Leagues when faced with the challenge of competing with rising NBA salaries. This transformation marked a significant chapter in the sport’s development, highlighting the league’s resilience and adaptability.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Design

The warm-up jacket in question is a testament to the era’s distinctive style and craftsmanship. Featuring a vibrant yellow hue, the jacket is adorned with white, yellow, and blue-striped cuffs on the sleeves and neck area, reflecting the bold and dynamic aesthetic of the time. The jacket is equipped with a functional zipper, ensuring both style and practicality. Inside, below the rear collar, a “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag is prominently displayed, accompanied by a size “L” flag tag, underscoring its authenticity and provenance.

Provenance and Condition

This remarkable jacket was presented to us as player-worn, and in our opinion, it shows appropriate wear, indicative of its use in the competitive basketball environment of its time. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from McKee, complete with a notary stamp, this piece is not only a garment but a relic of basketball history.

• Historical Significance: Represents the NIBL, a foundational league in American basketball history.
• Authenticity: Properly tagged with a “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag and size “L” flag tag.
• Condition: Presented as player-worn, showing appropriate wear consistent with its era.
• Documentation: Accompanied by an LOA from McKee with a notary stamp.

Why This Jacket Matters

This warm-up jacket is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a tangible connection to the roots of professional basketball in the United States. As a part of the NIBL’s legacy, it embodies the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defined the league. For collectors and enthusiasts, this jacket offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of basketball history, a symbol of the sport’s enduring legacy and evolution.

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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.