This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/5/2023
The NBA’s all-time leader in points, blocked shots, and MVP awards (among a host of other records and accolades), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar established himself as a force to be reckoned with long before he ever played a minute of professional basketball. Lauded as an All-American at New York's Power Memorial High School, a teenaged Lew Alcindor led his team to 71 straight wins and a 95-6 aggregate record during his prep career. He then paced a UCLA dynasty to three consecutive NCAA Championships and an 88-2 overall record under the legendary John Wooden. His reputation preceding him, the 7' 2" center went on to dominate the NBA for 20 seasons. As the Lakers’ starting center from 1975-89, Kareem won five of his six NBA titles during the 1980s, his patented skyhook and quiet, lead-by-example mantra guided L.A. to an incredible run of eight Finals appearances during the decade.
Presented here is an early 1980s (circa 1980-85 according to MEARS) Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Los Angeles Lakers game-worn road jersey from the prime of the team’s legendary “Showtime” era. The purple mesh jersey has "Lakers" across the front in gold on white tackle twill, with Kareem’s trademark No. 33 front and back in white on gold. The upper back has "ABDUL-JABBAR" in semi-circular fashion in gold on white tackle twill. All original numbering and lettering are sewn directly onto the fabric. Piping around the neck and arms is gold outlined in white. The front tail boasts the proper Tiernan manufacturer's tagging found on Lakers exemplars during that period. The shirt displays significant wear with stretching around the neck and armpits, puckering to the numbers, and evidence of perspiration. Donned by the top scorer in history (at least until King James catches him), this jersey is a must-have for any serious Lakers or basketball collector! Includes LOA from MEARS graded a perfect A10.