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Abe Saperstein – (D. 1966) Although only 5-foot-3, Abe Saperstein, through his promotion of the Harlem Globetrotters, did more to popularize and publicize basketball than any of the game's big men. A masterful promoter and shrewd businessman, Saperstein's keen sense of entertainment, and his handling of the Harlem Globetrotters was genius. Originally a high school team, they became known as the Savoy Big Five (after the Savoy Ballroom on the south side of Chicago) and on January 7, 1927, played their first game in Hinckley, IL. Initially, the "Trotters" were an all-black barnstorming team playing serious ball and dominating games across the country. Saperstein soon began adding a little spice to each game. Through Saperstein's vision and dedication, the Harlem Globetrotters developed and became world famous for a unique style of play that combined technical mastery with humor, slight of hand, and fun. He was elected to the Naismith Basketball HOF in 1971.
Sid Hartman (D. 2020) As a 27-year-old in 1947, Hartman became the acting general manager of the Minneapolis Lakers. Hartman helped build what would become the first dynasty in the NBA . He later became a staple in Minnesota as a sportswriter and broadcaster. He inducted Bud Grant into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994. Hartman passed away in 2020
Offered is an 8.5” x 11” typed letter signed on Harlem Globetrotters letterhead dated September 21, 1960 from Globetrotters founder, owner, and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, Abe Saperstein to Sid Hartman with great content regarding Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson. The letter reads:
“Sid:
At hand your note dated September 16th and this is the first chance I have had to really delve into any correspondence since my return from the Great Slave Lake country of northern Canada. Incidentally, you might ask your Outdoors Editor if he knew of anyone that ever bagged a little better than five pound Arctic Grayling.....because I happened to.....and am currently having it mounted.
Recently sent along a bit of material to Joe Reichler at his address in New York.....and am having the office go through clipping files to get some column material in the last year or two which I will send to Joe.
I will likely be in the New York City area, October 13th, 14th or 15th and if Reichler will be on hand.....and his time permits..... will try to get together.
Note that Reichler says that it is important that I go pretty heavy on the Chamberlain and Robertson situations.....but the fact remains in actually telling the true story of these athletes as far as my dealings go.....I would be embarrassing a lot of people.....and talking about behind the scenes activities that should remain where they are.
I will send along some story material (rags) and I believe following a get-together we will know how to proceed.....if proceed we do.
Closing with kindest regards.....and asking that you extend my best to everyone we both know up Twin Cities way, I am
Sincerely yours,
ABE (SAPERSTEIN)”
Signed in blue ink (first name only).
We presume that Saperstein is referring to Chamberlain leaving the Globetrotters to sign with the Philadelphia Warriors and his attempt to sign Oscar Robertson. The Big O’s brother, Bailey starred for the Globetrotters for years.
Awesome historic content!!!
Full JSA LOA
Item: 13933
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