This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2019
Offered is the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame trophy presented to Connie Hawkins at the 1992 Induction Ceremony. The Brooklyn native, who groomed his game at Rucker Park as a teenager, was forced to begin his professional career early in the ABL after being unfairly blackballed by the NCAA and NBA over a point-shaving scandal that he was never proven to have taken part in. After a five-year run with the Harlem Globetrotters, the 6’ 8” forward joined the Pittsburgh Pipers and promptly led them to the 1968 ABA Championship in his first season, also earning league MVP honors. “The Hawk” eventually found his way to the NBA, starring for the Phoenix Suns and making four straight All-Star teams (1970-73).
The bronze-colored figural trophy stands 19.5" tall and depicts the spire located outside the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. The base, with a diameter of 6.75",has two plaques along the outside reading “CONNIE HAWKINS" and "Class of 1992." The upper section of the base reads "NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME ENSHRINEE" in raised relief. The stylized basketball finial at the top of the trophy has the name of the designer/artist "B. Hanlon" impressed into the cast metal material. The trophy weighs 7 lbs. and presents in NM condition with light handling. Hall of Fame trophies from elite players like Hawkins are among the most coveted awards pursued by esteemed basketball collectors. Accompanied by a photo of Connie with his fellow 1992 Basketball Hall of Fame inductees holding their trophies for a group shot. Includes LOA from Connie Hawkins' longtime girlfriend.