1970 Julius Erving Game Worn University of Massachusetts Redmen Uniform, MEARS A10....

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Sold on Aug 1, 2013 for:

$86,637.50 Bid Source: Live: Phone bidder

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An exceedingly rare full collegiate uniform from Dr. J!

1970 Julius Erving Game Worn University of Massachusetts Redmen Uniform, MEARS A10. Arguably the most transformative figure in the sport since Dr. Naismith dreamed it up in 1892, the inimitable Dr. J brought the flash and flare of Harlem's Rucker Park to the professional game, first as the afro-framed face of the ABA and ultimately to a dozen seasons of brilliance in the uniform of the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers. But it was at the University of Massachusetts that this legend in the making began to exhibit signs of his brilliance, averaging thirty-five points and twenty rebounds per game over two varsity seasons, one of only five players in NCAA history to post a career average superior to 20/20. In 1971, Erving would join the Virginia Squires as an undrafted free agent, setting course for one of the most decorated professional careers the game has ever known.

Presented is an exceedingly rare full collegiate uniform worn during the 1970 season, Dr. J's final year of amateur ball. The uniform derives from a solid source in the Queens neighborhood where Erving lived and attended Roosevelt High School, a tale supported by a notarized letter of provenance that will be provided for the winning bidder. It represents one of just two Erving UMass jerseys, and the only full uniform, known to survive to this day.

The understated design stands in contrast to the enormous historical relevance and desirability of the white knit jersey, featuring a uniquely fonted "Massachusetts 32" in red tackle twill on the chest, with the digits repeated in larger format on verso. Interior rear tail holds proper "Cosby [size] 44" labeling with a "'70" year swatch to the left. The matching shorts, tailored in that revealing early 1970's style, announce "Redmen" in red block at each high-cut waist panel, with a "Cosby" manufacturer's label at interior. Number "32" is written at interior right hip, and "34" at interior left, suggesting that Erving shared use of the garment. Both halves of the uniform exhibit solid wear with a few small spots of toning that do little to distract. An exciting opportunity to own one of the most important game worn rarities in the basketball collecting subgenre. LOA from MEARS, A10. LOA from Heritage Auctions.

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