This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/6/2022
This photograph documents one of the first attempts to merge the upstart ABA with the established NBA in 1971-72. The two leagues had been at odds since the ABA’s founding in 1967 and fought bitterly to win over fans. In the years since, the ABA steadily grew in popularity, primarily through the exciting play of a few key stars such as Julius Erving and the league’s faster play typified by the new 3-point shot.
In this photo, ABA legend Dr. J poses with NBA stars Elgin Baylor and Bob Love along with Al Bianchi. Ralph Caso, Nassau County (NY) Executive, is the gentleman on the middle. The back of the photo notes mention then-NBA Commissioner Walter Kennedy, but he is not pictured.
Prominent in the photo is each of the two league’s official basketball: the traditional orange NBA version and the revolutionary red, white and blue sphere used by the ABA.
The merger did not happen in 1971-72, but in 1976 four of the six ABA teams officially joined the NBA. The photo has some edge wear with some paper loss in the lower right corner. The photo has been encapsulated and graded a Type 1 Authentic by PSA.