A garment representing a professional basketball player, specifically Lawrence Demetrius Johnson, who played in the National Basketball Association. These items are typically made of breathable, durable fabric and display the team’s colors, player’s name, and assigned number. These can be obtained through official NBA retailers or through vintage collectors.
Acquiring apparel associated with prominent athletes provides a tangible connection to sporting history and individual achievement. They symbolize memorable moments, team affiliations, and personal admiration for the player. Their value often appreciates due to limited production runs or the player’s career trajectory, making them coveted collectibles for fans and enthusiasts. The item serves as a statement of identity and belonging to a wider community of basketball supporters.
This examination will explore factors influencing the collectibility of such merchandise, variations in design across his career, and methods for verifying the authenticity of the item. Furthermore, the impact of player performance on the resale market value and their significance in the broader sports memorabilia industry will be considered.
1. Charlotte Hornets Teals
The teal-colored uniform of the Charlotte Hornets is intrinsically linked to the perception and value of apparel bearing Larry Johnson’s name and number. During his tenure with the Hornets (1991-1996), Johnson achieved significant individual success and contributed to the team’s rising popularity. The teal uniforms became synonymous with this era, representing an exciting, young team led by Johnson and Alonzo Mourning. Therefore, teal Hornets merchandise featuring Johnson is frequently sought after by collectors and fans, representing a specific and highly desirable period in his career.
The color teal itself, a defining characteristic of the Hornets’ identity during that period, contributed significantly to the apparel’s recognizability and desirability. The visually distinctive design, combined with Johnson’s on-court performance and his engaging “Grandmama” persona, created a powerful marketing synergy. For instance, a game-worn teal Hornets item from Johnson’s rookie season would command a significantly higher price than a comparable item from his later years with the New York Knicks, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Charlotte Hornets era and the corresponding uniform color.
Understanding the association between the “Charlotte Hornets Teals” and their associated player is essential for assessing value and authenticity. Collectors prioritize items from this period due to their historical significance and nostalgic appeal. The teal version is the embodiment of the player’s prime, serving as a critical element in the perception and collectibility of the item. The enduring legacy of the Hornets’ teal uniforms and player continues to drive demand and establish value in the sports memorabilia market.
2. New York Knicks Blues
The “New York Knicks Blues” signifies a later, yet important, chapter in Lawrence Johnson’s career and impacts the perception and value of any apparel from that period. While his time with the Knicks (1996-2001) did not reach the same individual statistical heights as his Hornets years, it was marked by team success and memorable moments, influencing the demand for merchandise from that era.
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1999 NBA Finals Appearance
Johnson played a key role in the Knicks’ improbable run to the 1999 NBA Finals. This achievement, despite the team ultimately losing to the San Antonio Spurs, elevated the significance of the team’s apparel from that season. For example, a jersey worn during the Finals run would hold higher value than a regular season item.
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“Four-Point Play” Legacy
Johnson’s famous “four-point play” against the Indiana Pacers in the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals is an iconic moment directly linked to the apparel. This single play enhanced the historical significance and demand for Knicks items from that specific period. Such specific in-game examples highlight collectibility.
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Team Dynamics and Role
During his time with the Knicks, Johnson transitioned into a role as a veteran leader and floor spacer. While not the dominant force he was in Charlotte, his contributions to the team’s success impacted how his merchandise is viewed by fans and collectors. Collectors value pieces from specific seasons demonstrating impact.
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Design Variations and Branding
The Knicks jerseys of Johnson’s era featured specific design elements, including team logos and lettering styles, which distinguish them from other periods. These distinct characteristics assist in verifying authenticity and determining the item’s production year. Distinctions such as material, patch placement and manufacturer affect item authenticity.
These facets of Johnson’s Knicks tenure, from the Finals appearance to the “four-point play” and the specific design elements of the apparel, collectively contribute to the overall desirability and market value. While not reaching the premium levels of his Charlotte Hornets gear, the “New York Knicks Blues” represent a crucial part of his career and hold considerable appeal for collectors seeking to own a piece of basketball history. Factors such as game usage and specific game association also influence market demand.
3. Grandmama Converse Ads
The “Grandmama Converse Ads” are inextricably linked to the recognition and marketability of apparel associated with Lawrence Johnson, notably his NBA jersey. These advertisements, featuring Johnson in character as a elderly woman playing basketball, transcended typical endorsement deals. The commercials provided a memorable and highly visible association between Johnson, the Converse brand, and, by extension, anything bearing his name or likeness. The impact extends to the current collectibility and value of the garments, particularly those from his Charlotte Hornets tenure.
The “Grandmama” character significantly broadened Johnson’s appeal beyond traditional basketball fans. The humor and creativity of the advertisements captured a wider audience, increasing his celebrity and marketability. An example is how a generic Converse advertisement wouldn’t necessarily lead directly to increased interest in a specific Charlotte Hornets garment. However, the ubiquity and memorability of “Grandmama” ensured that the two became connected in the public consciousness. This increased association would, in turn, enhance the desirability and perceived value of Hornets jerseys bearing the player’s name and number, especially within niche collector communities.
Understanding the role of the “Grandmama Converse Ads” is crucial for assessing the historical significance and market value of any Lawrence Johnson apparel. These commercials were more than just endorsements; they were a cultural phenomenon that solidified Johnson’s place in popular culture and directly influenced the perception and demand for his NBA jersey. Ignoring this element results in an incomplete assessment of its collectible status and overall cultural resonance. The item stands to be more historically significant within a collection with this specific connection.
4. UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Roots
The collegiate career of Lawrence Johnson with the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels forms a foundational element in understanding the perception and value of professional apparel bearing his name and number. His success and the team’s notoriety during his time at UNLV (1989-1991) created a lasting legacy that extends to the market for his NBA items.
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National Championship Impact
The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels’ 1990 NCAA Championship win, in which Johnson played a pivotal role, cemented his status as a basketball icon. This achievement translates directly to the demand for and value of any of his memorabilia, including NBA jerseys. Items associated with players from championship-winning teams often hold higher market value due to historical significance.
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High-Profile Games and Media Attention
The Runnin’ Rebels’ high-scoring offense and dominant performances garnered significant media attention during Johnson’s tenure. This increased exposure elevated his profile and created a larger fanbase, which subsequently fueled the demand for his merchandise at both the collegiate and professional levels. The historical performance drives the valuation of sports memorabilia.
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“Grandmama” Origins and Brand Building
While the “Grandmama” persona became more prominent during his NBA career, the seeds were arguably sown during his time at UNLV. His dynamic playing style and charisma contributed to his marketability and laid the groundwork for future endorsement deals. An understanding of the player’s brand origins affect the interpretation of collectors.
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Collegiate Jersey Influence
The design and aesthetic of the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels uniforms of the era may have indirectly influenced the perception and design of his later NBA apparel. While not a direct correlation, the visual association with his college success likely contributes to the overall appeal of items associated with him. Design aesthetics impact memorabilia collectors and interest.
The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels legacy, and Johnson’s integral role within it, provides a crucial context for assessing the desirability and market value of his NBA items. His collegiate achievements established his reputation and brand, creating a foundation for the later demand and collectibility of his professional jerseys. The collegiate level is an important aspect to his history influencing the NBA era.
5. Champion Authentic Details
The manufacturer “Champion” held licensing rights for producing official NBA apparel during much of Lawrence Johnson’s professional basketball career. Therefore, authentic garments from this period often feature specific design and manufacturing characteristics associated with Champion. Identifying these authentic details is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to assess the genuineness and value of apparel attributed to him.
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Champion Jock Tag and Sizing
Authentic Champion NBA jerseys from the 1990s typically feature a Champion jock tag sewn onto the lower left front of the garment. This tag includes the Champion logo, the official NBA logo, and sizing information (e.g., size 48). Variations in font style, stitching quality, and tag material can indicate inconsistencies and potential inauthenticity. For instance, a modern font or poorly stitched tag suggests a reproduction. Older Champion jerseys are more likely to feature these types of tags. The tag itself is an important indicator.
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Champion Logo Placement and Embroidery
The Champion logo, usually embroidered on the left shoulder of the jersey, adheres to specific size and color standards. The quality of the embroidery should be high, with clean lines and consistent stitching. Any loose threads, uneven spacing, or incorrect color shades raise concerns about authenticity. Logo accuracy is a component of the authentication process and worth a careful review.
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Fabric Quality and Construction
Champion utilized specific fabric blends and construction techniques for their authentic NBA jerseys. The material typically possesses a distinct weight, texture, and sheen. The stitching patterns, seam construction, and overall durability should reflect the manufacturer’s quality standards. Lightweight fabrics or poor stitching suggest a replica. The type of fabric material is a key identifier.
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NBA Logo and Team Lettering
The official NBA logo and team lettering on authentic Champion jerseys adhere to precise design specifications, including font style, size, and color. The application method, whether screen-printed or heat-pressed, should be consistent with Champion’s production practices. Misaligned lettering, faded colors, or variations in the NBA logo design may signal inauthenticity. Details like NBA official logos and colors are key components.
The “Champion Authentic Details” provide a framework for verifying the legitimacy of garments purportedly associated with Lawrence Johnson and the NBA. Attention to these details assists in differentiating genuine items from reproductions or counterfeit products, ensuring that collectors and enthusiasts can make informed purchasing decisions. Knowledge of manufacturer details like Champion informs purchasing decisions.
6. Mitchell & Ness Throwbacks
Mitchell & Ness’s production of “throwback” apparel significantly impacts the availability and perceived value of items associated with Lawrence Johnson’s NBA career. Mitchell & Ness specializes in recreating vintage sports apparel, including authentic replicas of jerseys worn by prominent players throughout history. This endeavor effectively reintroduces garments, including those associated with Johnson, into the market, influencing collecting trends and price points. Without Mitchell & Ness throwback availability, vintage items would be rare and more difficult to attain. This company makes them more accessible.
The existence of Mitchell & Ness throwback versions offers a tangible alternative to acquiring original vintage garments, which can be scarce and expensive. For example, an original game-worn Johnson Charlotte Hornets jersey from the early 1990s might command a significantly higher price than a comparable Mitchell & Ness reproduction. However, the Mitchell & Ness version provides a more affordable and readily accessible option for fans and collectors seeking to own a piece of basketball history. The existence of Mitchell & Ness throwbacks also influences the market for original vintage jerseys, as they offer a benchmark for comparison and can potentially drive down prices for less pristine or undocumented originals.
In conclusion, the production of throwback items by Mitchell & Ness plays a vital role in the market dynamics surrounding apparel associated with Lawrence Johnson’s NBA career. While these reproductions do not hold the same historical value as original game-worn garments, they offer a viable alternative for enthusiasts, impacting both the accessibility and valuation of the items. Mitchell & Ness provides a practical option to explore sports memorabilia with more attainability.
7. Rookie Season Popularity
The inaugural year of Lawrence Johnson’s NBA career significantly impacted the demand for and subsequent value of apparel associated with him, specifically his jerseys. The initial impression and excitement surrounding a highly touted rookie often translate directly into increased merchandise sales and collector interest.
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High Draft Status and Expectations
Johnson was selected as the first overall pick in the 1991 NBA draft, immediately placing him under intense scrutiny and generating considerable media attention. This high profile amplified the visibility of his Charlotte Hornets jersey, driving initial sales and establishing its presence in the market. For example, the pre-season sales of Hornets jerseys were measurably higher than in previous years due to anticipation surrounding his debut. Draft status is a critical factor for initial exposure.
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Immediate Impact and On-Court Performance
Johnson’s immediate contributions to the Hornets’ success further fueled the popularity of his jersey. His dynamic playing style, highlighted by powerful dunks and impressive scoring, resonated with fans and solidified his status as a rising star. Sales data from his rookie season demonstrated a direct correlation between his on-court achievements and jersey sales, with spikes occurring after particularly impressive performances. Performance directly influences public demand.
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“Grandmama” Marketing Synergy
The concurrent launch of the “Grandmama” Converse advertising campaign during his rookie season provided an additional boost to Johnson’s marketability and the appeal of his apparel. The unique and memorable commercials further broadened his reach beyond traditional basketball fans, driving sales among a wider demographic. The “Grandmama” marketing campaign was timed perfectly to capitalize on his introduction to the NBA. Synergy amplifies the commercial aspect.
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Limited Availability and Collector Interest
The initial production runs of Johnson’s rookie season jerseys were relatively limited compared to later years, contributing to their scarcity and collectibility. This scarcity, combined with the nostalgic appeal of his early career, has driven up the prices for authentic rookie-year garments in the secondary market. The limited availability of items drives collectibility.
The confluence of high draft status, immediate on-court impact, strategic marketing campaigns, and limited initial availability collectively contributed to the heightened popularity of Lawrence Johnson’s rookie season jerseys. This initial demand established a foundation for their continued collectibility and value within the sports memorabilia market. The combination of these conditions solidifies the memorabilia.
8. Retirement Era Demand
The period following a professional athlete’s retirement often witnesses a fluctuation in the demand for memorabilia associated with their career, directly impacting the value and collectibility of items such as apparel bearing their name and number. The withdrawal from active play can trigger both nostalgic reflection and a reassessment of an athlete’s overall legacy, influencing market dynamics.
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Nostalgia and Legacy Reflection
Upon retirement, the focus shifts from present performance to the athlete’s historical impact. This triggers a surge in nostalgia among fans, leading them to seek out tangible connections to the player’s career. Items like jerseys become symbols of a bygone era, representing specific moments and emotions tied to the player’s accomplishments. For example, sales of Lawrence Johnson’s jerseys might increase following significant milestones, such as Hall of Fame eligibility or induction, as fans revisit his career highlights and seek to commemorate his legacy.
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Scarcity and Limited Availability
With the athlete no longer actively playing, the supply of new, officially licensed merchandise dwindles. This scarcity, combined with increased demand fueled by nostalgia, can drive up the prices of existing items, particularly those from earlier stages of the player’s career. Game-worn jerseys or limited-edition releases from Johnson’s rookie season, for example, may experience a significant increase in value due to their finite supply and historical significance.
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Media Attention and Documentary Influence
Retirement often prompts renewed media coverage of the athlete’s career, including documentaries, biographies, and retrospective articles. This increased visibility can reintroduce the player to a new generation of fans and rekindle interest among existing supporters, leading to a surge in demand for memorabilia. A well-received documentary chronicling Lawrence Johnson’s career, for instance, could stimulate sales of his jerseys as viewers connect with his story and seek to own a piece of his legacy.
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Investment and Speculation
The perceived long-term value of an athlete’s memorabilia can attract investors and speculators, further influencing market dynamics. These individuals may purchase items like jerseys with the expectation that their value will appreciate over time, driving up prices and potentially limiting availability for genuine fans and collectors. The investment value for an NBA player is influenced by their historical significance.
The demand for apparel associated with Lawrence Johnson following his retirement is multifaceted, driven by nostalgia, scarcity, media attention, and investment speculation. These factors interact to influence the value and collectibility of his jerseys, transforming them from mere pieces of clothing into tangible representations of his enduring legacy within the sport of basketball.
9. Authenticity Verification Marks
The value and collectibility of any apparel linked to Lawrence Johnson’s NBA career hinges significantly on the presence and validation of authentication markers. These markers serve as indicators of originality and legitimacy, distinguishing genuine items from reproductions or counterfeits. The absence or misinterpretation of such markers directly diminishes an item’s value and collectibility. Examples of authentication markers include specific manufacturer tags (Champion, Mitchell & Ness), official NBA logos, player signatures, and unique identifiers from auction houses specializing in sports memorabilia. In the context of a garment, verification becomes paramount to its monetary and historical value. Without established markers, authenticity is jeopardized.
The practical application of understanding these markers is critical for both collectors and sellers. Collectors utilize this knowledge to make informed purchasing decisions, minimizing the risk of acquiring fraudulent items. Sellers rely on this understanding to accurately represent the merchandise they offer, ensuring fair market value and establishing credibility. Furthermore, auction houses and sports memorabilia authenticators utilize a comprehensive checklist of authentication markers to assess and certify the genuineness of each item. These authentications establish a history of validity and verification on the specific item. Third-party verification provides significant confidence.
In summary, the presence and accurate interpretation of authentication markers are indispensable for maintaining the integrity and value of apparel associated with Lawrence Johnson’s NBA career. While counterfeit items may superficially resemble authentic examples, a thorough examination of these markers often reveals discrepancies. Understanding and verifying these markers is a fundamental requirement for both participants in the sports memorabilia market, contributing to the broader challenge of combating the proliferation of counterfeit sports merchandise. Detailed examinations of markers are increasingly vital with the existence of counterfeit sports memorabilia.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding items related to a former basketball player, Lawrence Johnson, focusing on authenticity, valuation, and historical significance.
Question 1: How is the authenticity of such a garment verified?
Verification involves examining manufacturer tags (Champion, Mitchell & Ness), NBA logos, stitching patterns, and comparing these details against known characteristics of officially licensed merchandise from the relevant period. Third-party authentication services offer professional verification.
Question 2: What factors contribute to its market value?
Factors influencing market value include the item’s condition, the player’s performance during the associated season, scarcity, whether it was game-worn, and its historical significance (e.g., associated with a championship run or memorable moment). Provenance and authentication also significantly impact value.
Question 3: Are Mitchell & Ness “throwback” versions considered authentic?
Mitchell & Ness “throwback” items are authentic reproductions, not original vintage garments. While officially licensed and of high quality, they do not possess the same historical value as original game-worn or period-issued items.
Question 4: What is the significance of the “Grandmama” Converse advertising campaign?
The “Grandmama” campaign significantly boosted the player’s marketability and brand recognition, increasing the demand for his merchandise, particularly during his early NBA career. Items associated with the “Grandmama” era often command higher prices due to their cultural significance.
Question 5: How does his collegiate career at UNLV affect the value?
His success at UNLV, including a national championship, established his reputation and brand, increasing long-term demand and collectibility of his professional apparel. Items that directly reference or commemorate his UNLV career may carry a premium.
Question 6: What are the key details to look for when assessing a Champion-manufactured jersey?
Key details include the Champion jock tag (font, stitching), the embroidered Champion logo (size, placement, quality), fabric quality (weight, texture), and the accuracy of NBA logos and team lettering. Discrepancies in these areas may indicate a reproduction.
Understanding these factors allows for informed decisions when acquiring or assessing the value of such sports memorabilia.
The following section will summarize points within this article.
Valuation and Authenticity
These tips address key considerations when assessing the authenticity and value of sports memorabilia associated with a former NBA player. Understanding these details facilitates informed decisions for collectors and enthusiasts.
Tip 1: Examine Manufacturer Details: Verify the presence and accuracy of manufacturer tags (Champion, Mitchell & Ness). Assess font styles, stitching quality, and logo placement, comparing them to known authentic examples from the relevant period. Discrepancies suggest potential inauthenticity.
Tip 2: Assess Historical Context: Evaluate the item’s historical significance. Consider whether it is associated with a specific season, achievement (e.g., championship run), or memorable moment. Items linked to significant events generally command higher prices.
Tip 3: Research Provenance: Investigate the item’s history and chain of ownership. Documentation from reputable sources (e.g., auction houses, sports memorabilia authenticators) enhances its credibility and value.
Tip 4: Compare to Known Examples: Consult online resources, collector communities, and authentication guides to compare the item’s characteristics with those of known authentic examples. This helps identify inconsistencies and potential red flags.
Tip 5: Consider Third-Party Authentication: Engage the services of reputable third-party authentication services to obtain professional verification. These services possess expertise in identifying authentic details and can provide a certificate of authenticity, enhancing the item’s market value.
Tip 6: Evaluate Material Quality: Examine the fabric, stitching, and construction for quality and consistency with established manufacturing standards from the era. Substandard materials or poor workmanship are indicators of reproduction items.
These guidelines provide a framework for assessing the legitimacy and worth of such memorabilia. Diligent research and attention to detail are essential for making informed acquisitions or valuations.
The conclusion will summarize our discussion on the value of sports apparel within the memorabilia community.
Apparel Significance in Retrospect
This exploration of the market surrounding larry johnson nba jersey has illuminated the multifaceted factors influencing its collectibility and value. From the manufacturer’s imprint to the player’s on-court achievements and cultural impact, multiple elements intertwine to determine desirability among enthusiasts and collectors. These factors include, but are not limited to, Champion authentication details, the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels’ influence, the “Grandmama” marketing synergy, and the scarcity of rookie-season garments. Assessing authenticity and historical context becomes paramount.
The enduring appeal transcends mere nostalgia; it signifies a tangible connection to a specific era in basketball history and the broader cultural landscape. Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to pursue rigorous research and verification methods when acquiring merchandise associated with former players, thereby preserving the integrity and historical accuracy within the sports memorabilia market. Continued diligence ensures that these items retain their value as cultural artifacts, commemorating the careers and legacies of celebrated athletes.
