Opening Day Auction Closing May 9th
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/10/2015
Long before the Lebron James - Kobe Bryant rivalry and even before Bird vs Magic there was Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. Those two NBA pioneers formed the first ever super-rivalry in pro basketball history. Chamberlain's seemingly effortless talent made him a hero in Philadelphia while Russell's tough workman-like approach to the sport endeared him to Boston fans. Throughout the 1960's the two men and their teams went head to head and though Chamberlain out-scored and out-rebounded Russell, the Celtics always seemed to wind up on top. Despite their fierce rivalry on the court, both men were at the time and remained life-long friends. This outstanding ball brings both men Hall of Famers together once again. The Spalding Official NBA David J. Stern Game Ball has been signed in gold ink by Chamberlain and Russell on adjoining panels. Russell's is still strong and bright but Chamberlain's though still legible has faded somewhat with age. A Russell Hollywood Collectibles and PSA/DNA sticker V13739 are affixed to the ball. Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA.