Legendary basketball coach Red Auerbach, who led the Boston Celtics to an impressive nine NBA championships in just eleven years, has left an indelible mark on the basketball community. Now, fans and collectors have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of history as a collection of Auerbach’s memorabilia, including items from his most successful season, goes up for auction at Heritage Auctions’ prestigious Platinum Night event.
The highlight of the auction is Auerbach’s 1965 NBA championship ring, commemorating the Celtics’ remarkable 62-18 season under his guidance. This ring, along with Auerbach’s Coach of the Year Award and his personal league championship trophy from the same season, symbolize the pinnacle of his coaching career. Basketball enthusiasts will also have the chance to bid on the ring Auerbach received as the general manager of the Celtics’ 1984 championship team, a prized possession expected to fetch upwards of $100,000.
What sets the 1965 championship season apart is not just the Celtics’ extraordinary record but also Auerbach’s groundbreaking decision to start five African-American players, a first in NBA history. This team’s significance was recognized in 1996 when it was voted one of the NBA’s ten greatest teams of all time. The 1965 championship ring and trophy are estimated to sell for $80,000 and $30,000, respectively, while the Coach of the Year award is also anticipated to garner significant interest.
In addition to these remarkable items, the auction includes more personal memorabilia, such as a 1940s Washington Capitols team jacket, believed to have been worn by Auerbach during his early coaching days and later signed by him. Another unique item will be a collection of Auerbach’s smoking pipes, complete with a stand and humidor, showcasing a more intimate aspect of his life.
Among the other notable lots are two signed 1960-61 team photos, a 1981 Celtics championship watch, autographed photos of Auerbach with basketball legend Bill Russell, a 1960s photo of Bob Cousy signed to Auerbach, and various championship rings and jewelry pieces given to his wife and family.
This auction comes following a previous sale of Auerbach memorabilia in 2011, allowing basketball enthusiasts yet another opportunity to own a piece of sporting history. Bidding for these rare and historic items will conclude on Friday, February 25, giving collectors and fans a unique chance to celebrate the legacy of one of the NBA’s most revered figures. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary auction that promises to leave a lasting impact on the world of basketball collectibles.
