Branch McCracken Basketball HOF Indiana Coach D. 1970 Signed Envelope Postal Cover

College ballplayer turned coach "Big Bear" Branch McCracken (D. 1970) earned his nickname because of his 6-foot-4 size and tendency to scowl. A ferocious and complete competitor at Indiana University, McCracken played center, forward, and guard, leading the Hoosiers in scoring for three years. Playing under Hall of Fame coach Everett Dean, McCracken was named Big Ten Conference MVP in 1928. Upon enshrinement in 1960, he was one of first eight players to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame. McCracken enjoyed an equally successful coaching career, compiling a 450-231 record in 32 seasons at Indiana and Ball State. He guided Indiana, known as the "Hurrying Hoosiers," to NCAA Championships in 1940 and 1953, feats that earned him Coach of the Year honors both seasons. McCracken was a workaholic and his teams reflected his hard work and spirited player. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1970.

Offered is an envelope signed by McCracken postmarked February 1, 1954 from the Sigurd Berg Collection. Encapsulated authentic by PSA/DNA. This is dated on the exact date that the Hoosiers Louisville.  Indiana finished the season #1 in the Coach’s Poll and #4 in the final AP poll.  Slick Leonard was the team captain. Nice blue steel tipped fountain pen signature from this rare Indiana Legend! Postmarked April 3, 1953.



Item: 10534

Price: $599.00
Qty
Branch McCracken Basketball HOF Indiana Coach D. 1970 Signed Envelope Postal Cover