Basketball cards from the 1970s, like those from other big sports, have striking graphics. A lot of the athletes and jerseys from the period were similarly outrageous. As a result, there has been a decade of vibrant cards, bold lettering, and big hair. But there were few outstanding stars to start in the league during that era, at least not in the hobby sector.
Basketball rookie cards from the 1970s are a decently priced alternative for collectors wanting to go retro, even if they’re heading into high-grade singles. Although not all names are well-known, the cards truly pop out.
#1 1970 Topps: Wilt Chamberlain #50
The 1970 Topps cards are sometimes disregarded in terms of the set value, owing to their greater size and the absence of rookie power. Nevertheless, the collection is chock-full of basketball superstars, especially Wilt Chamberlain’s #50 card.
It’s also relatively easy to find since over 1200 PSA-graded copies are available. However, a mint or near-mint card will cost you thousands.
#2 1970-71 Topps: Pat Riley Rookie Card #13
Pat Riley worked a great deal on the sidelines as a player. He had little influence in helping the Lakers won the League title in 1972, but he kept pushing and became one of the finest coaches in the game. He was only an assistant coach during the 1980 title win for Los Angeles. He then worked as the head coach for the next five years (four years with the Lakers). Riley’s Topps rookie card from 1970-71 has an odd photo but a famous design. As with 1976-77, the collection was oversized as Topps explored something new.
#3 1970 Topps: Lew Alcindor #75
Lew Alcindor’s 1970 Topps card is the most valuable in the series and, in our view, is still underestimated. The card has a more significant PSA population than Chamberlain, with over 1500 PSA-graded copies, but it is still reasonably priced. A Minted version typically sells for up to $500, making it a fantastic buy for vintage basketball enthusiasts.
#4 1971-72 Topps: Dave Cowens Rookie Card #47
Dave Cowens, a two-time NBA champion and seven-time All-Star, is among the chosen few in NBA history to lead his squad in points, assists, rebounds, steals, and blocks in the same season. In 1991, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He is regarded as among the best Celtics in history.
#5 1972-73 Topps: Julius Erving Rookie Card #195
Dr J is widely regarded as one of current basketball’s leading figures, ushering in an era of quick-paced play. While the 1970s produced a slew of superstars, few achieved Erving’s heights. Dr J is a two-time ABA winner and one-time NBA titleholder who ranks among the game’s all-time greats. For many, the most memorable basketball rookie card of the period is this Julius Erving rookie card. It’s also one of a few that will cost you above a few hundred bucks.
Bottom Line
Some cards may be beyond your reach if you’re starting from scratch. Therefore, it’s better to start small and then expand your collection. But if you’re a veteran and have some of these gems at your disposal, you need to find a reliable place to sell them, and we at American Legends can help. Just contact us to get started!
