This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2001.
The eye-grabbing red, white and blue basketball used by the ABA in its 9-year run was ridiculed by NBA people as something more suited to a seal's nose than a point guard's hand. Yet the ball was a great marketing gimmick and a hit with the fans and today the NBA uses just such a ball in its Shootout contest. Original ABA balls, however, are at a premium, such as this excellent condition original. The Rawlings RWB Official ball is inscribed "ABA Approved" on the white panel. A handwritten "$15.00" is on the ball, possibly its original price. If the names Bill Melchionne and LaVern Tart mean anything to you, this ball is for you.