1938 New York Renaissance Basketball Team Barnstorming Poster (First All-Professional African-American Basketball Team)

Sold For:

$3,840

Year:

1938

Auction:

2019 Fall

Lot #:

2683

Category:

Post-1900 Baseball Memorabilia

Rare poster heralding the appearance of the Renaissance Basketball Team at the I. M. A. Auditorium in Flint, Michigan, on February 3, 1938. The colorful design features a team photo of the club, while the text notes that they are not only "World's Champions," but "The Cleverest, Most Scientific Combination of Basketball Players on the Court Today." Additional information includes their opponent "Fisher Body Flint" and the price of admission ("General Admission 40¢ Reserved Seats. . . 75¢." ) The New York Renaissance Basketball Team, founded in 1923, was the first all African-American professional basketball team. During the 1920s and 1930s they were considered one of the top teams in the country and routinely beat the Boston Celtics, the dominant white team of the era. In 1939 the club officially claimed the title of World Champions when they defeated the Oshkosh All-Stars in the finals of the first World Professional Basketball Tournament. The poster (13.5 x 21.75 inches), printed on cardboard stock, displays a few light creases and minor surface wear. In Excellent condition overall. Mounted and framed to total dimensions of 21 x 29.5 inches. Reserve $500. Estimate (open).