2019 Winter Auction Closing March 2
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/2/2019
In 1979, Bobby Knight coached the United States Men’s Basketball team to a victory in the Pan American Games, held in Puerto Rico. Team USA went 9-0 in the games, defeating Puerto Rico 113-94 in the gold medal game. The US team boasted a heavy Indiana influence thanks to Knight, with Isiah Thomas and Mike Woodson starring for the United States. Other players on this team included Kevin McHale, Kyle Macy, and Ralph Sampson.
While Knight led the United States to the gold medal, his short time in Puerto Rico was not without controversy. Knight was accused by Puerto Rican authorities of assaulting a local police officer before a Team USA practice. Knight was sentenced in absentia to a six-month jail sentence for his actions. Offered here is a letter from the United States Olympic Committee to Sr. Jorge Lora Longoria accompanied by a check for $500 to pay Knight’s fine. The check and letter come with the original USOC envelope sent to Sr. Longoria in San Juan. This is a truly noteworthy lot for any college basketball fan.