2019 October Legends Closing October 19
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/20/2019
Encapsulated and graded NM-MT 8 by BGS, with signature graded "10" by Beckett, the lone copy graded by that company. Hall of Famer.
Russell played his entire career with the Boston Celtics, and was an indispensible part of the Celtics dynasty that won eleven NBA Championships during his thirteen-year career. Russell had already established himself as a champion by the time of his arrival to the NBA. His University of San Francisco Dons were back-to-back NCAA titlists (in 1955 and 1956), and Russell delayed in beginning his pro career, as he was occupied in leading the U.S. Olympic team to an 8-0 mark and the Gold Medal. Always shrewd in his assessment of talent, Celtics coach and General Manager Red Auerbach was intent upon acquiring the nation's brightest star. Auerbach knew that, barring a lapse in judgment and common sense, the 6-foot-10 center was certain to be plucked by the St. Louis Hawks. But, in exchange for center Ed Macauley (a capable player and St. Louis native) and phenom Cliff Hagan, Auerbach was able to land his prize. While the Auerbach-inspired deal enabled a St. Louis title in 1958, it brought the Celtics a dynasty. Winners in '57, the Celtics were felled in '58, as Russell injured an ankle during the series and was not a factor. But what followed, of course, was the legendary run of eight straight league championships, with Russell undeniably the machine's primary weapon. While the strength of sports dynasties are subject to debate, the very length of that of the Celtics makes it one of the most awe-inspiring in the history of American sport. Russell's role was instrumental, and he accumulated five MVP laurels. His great career was distinguished by the term "MVP," and defined forever by the title, "Hall of Famer." This exclusive collectible stands as a beautiful reminder of Bill Russell's incomparable, remarkable presence.
Bill Russell has penned a precise and flowing, blue ink signature on the obverse of this ultra-premium collectible; the cardfront also showcases a game worn jersey swatch relic, an item that is creatively displayed in a die-cut window cut to the shape of Russell's uniform number. The card's BGS condition report: Centering: 9.5, Corners: 8, Edges: 8, Surface: 8. A congratulatory statement on the card's back attests to the authenticity of the signature and genuineness of the patch component, and serves as Upper Deck’s COA. The limited-edition piece is serial-numbered "2/6." Near Mint to Mint condition.