Auction Item Details
Lot 186
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Lot Number: 186
Description: 1964 Bill Russell U.S. State Department Team U.S.A. professional model jersey. Important jersey issued to Bill Russell for use during games played as part of a tour organized by the U.S. State Department which featured a number of the most notable players of the time as selected by Red Auerbach. The star studded roster included Tom Heinsohn, KC Jones, Bob Cousy, Jerry Lucas, Oscar Robertson, Bob Pettitte, Tom Gola, and the inimitable, Bill Russell. All are now members of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the group can certainly be considered the original "Dream Team." The team was born out of an embarrassing loss suffered by another incarnation of Team USA which finished fourth in the 1963 FIBA World Championship losing to Russia, Yugoslavia, and Brazil. President Lyndon Johnson did not look favorably on the loss considering it a slight to America's standing in the world at the height of the Cold War. On his instruction the State Department’s Interagency on International Athletics organized a tour of Yugoslavia, Poland, Romania, and Egypt following the 1964 NBA season. Russia did not allow the talent rich roster admittance into their Country. White jersey, with red and blue trim, has "U.S.A." and "N.B.A." lettered on the front in blue and "Russell" on back. His number "6" appears on both front and back in red. Wilson tag on the front tail has adjacent size "46" flag tag. Well preserved with use and wash wear evident throughout along with some very minor spotting/discoloration. A very rare style as relates to one of the most talent stacked teams ever assembled. Includes LOA from Hunt Auctions and signed letter of provenance from Bill Russell: EXEstimated Price Range: ($100,000-$200,000)
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