Earl Francis Lloyd Handprints" Inspirational Sports Poster Print
An incredible message from a lengend in sports history, Earl Francis Lloyd, "The Big Cat", the First African-American to play in the NBA. This poster is a must have for every school's Athletic and History Department. It is a great addition to any family room as its message of perseverance and acceptance is applicable to all!
This motivational poster is in the last stages of the publishing and printing process and will be available to ship soon. We expect a large demand for this item and we will be the first to stock it, so place your pre-order now. You will no be charged until your order ships.!
Keep your motivational basketball poster in pristine condition by having it custom framed with a high quality Nielsen black aluminum frame. It is heat pressed to a foam board so it will last a lifetime. It is then finished with a clear plexiglass. Comes with hanging hardware. Looks great in your home, school or office. Shipped, protected, in a sturdy mirror box.
Message Written on Center Photo: Respect is always in style.
Text Appearing Under Center Photo: Earl Francis Lloyd - Known as "Moonfixer" in College and "The Big Cat in the NBA" - On October 31, 1950, Earl Lloyd, playing for the Washington Capitols vs. the Rochester (NY) Royals, became the first African-American to play in a National Basketball Association game. In 1968, he became the first African-American bench coach and in 1971, only its second head coach. As a member of the 1954/55 Syracuse Nationals he and Jim Tucker were the first African-Americans to be crowned as NBA champions.
Essay Appearing Under Photo Collage: ""When I think about my life, I think about handprints. ...look in the mirror and say - you belong! In 1950, if the Boston Celtics had not drafted Chuck Cooper in the second round of the draft, I may never have become "Earl Lloyd Basketball Hall of Famer". Given the racial climate in Washington D.C. at that time, I do not beleive the Capitols, the team that drafted me, would have opened the gate. The schedule had me playing first, otherwise Coop or Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton would have the distinction of being the first African-American to play in a NBA game. I share this honor with them, respectfully. Since I was the first, some people say to me "You are the Jackie Robinson of basketball". Look, I take polite umbrage to that. You cannot compare us. In so many ways, he did it alone. Jackie is my hero, a renaissance man, four-sport star, Baseball Hall of Famer - a legend. Unfortunately, people today do not know who he is. Need inspiration? Learn about Jackie. his handprints are on all of us. ... Pass your handprints onto someone else. "
