This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2015
In the 1995–96 season, the Chicago Bulls set the NBA record for wins, finishing the season 72–10. The Bulls also became the only team to ever win 70 regular season games, easily finishing first overall in their division, conference, and the entire NBA. The Bulls swept the Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs, defeated the New York Knicks in five games of the semifinals, and then swept the Orlando Magic in the Conference Finals. They then defeated the Seattle Super Sonics in the 1996 NBA Finals, winning their fourth NBA title in six seasons.
Offered for this lot is a “Front Office” Official NBA Chicago Bulls stamped painted trophy basketball. This Official NBA David J. Stern signature model Game Ball with Chicago Bulls team stamp, was removed from play and painted trophy style. On a white panel above the “Official Game Ball, NBA, David J Stern facsimile signature” is a single, white painted panel. “Chicago Bulls” (red), “1996” (gold), and “World Champions” (black) is expertly painted. Per our consignor, he stated this ball was given to front office personnel and is quite rare. It is the only example ever seen by MEARS and in my opinion, is the best of the best of its kind. We have researched the ball and complete lists of signers include:
Official Game Ball NBA panel: James Edwards, Luc Longley
Panel Below: Jason Caffey, Bill Wenington, Toni Kukoc
Inflate Panel: Jud Buechler, Steve Kerr
NBA Logo Panel: John Salley, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dickey Simpson
Next Panel: Dennis Rodman, Jack Haley, Larry Brown
Chicago Bulls Panel: Ron Harper, Jim Rogers (advisor/coach)
A very important relic from the most important season in NBA history.
(84L1001)
(JSA Auction Letter)