Collecting sports memorabilia is one of the most unique hobbies that a person can start at a very young age. Whether the item is a picture of Michael Jordan going up for a dunk or a ticket to a NBA game, these are memories that will forever remain in us and later on turn us into fans of the player, the team and the game as well. As we continue to watch with amazement the highlights of each game, we cannot help our desire to savor and remember the moment and triumph our favorite athlete is experiencing.
Autograph collection became a hobby for most of us in to help remember the triumphant moments of our favorite star’s career. Collecting autographed basketballs is no exception. It is one of the most unique ways to obtain an autograph from your favorite star.
The first thing you have to do is find places that sell autographed basketballs. General sporting goods stores and online auction websites may have collectors item like these autographed basketball but authenticity has always been an issue with these. You can also try writing to your favorite players or team to ask for an autographed ball or you could send one for them to sign. They may not be able to answer your request right away or not at all but it’s definitely worth a try. On the other hand, you can personally go to a stadium before the game starts so that you can see the players practicing. It is the best time for you to politely toss and respectfully ask them to sign your ball.
Preserving an autographed basketball is a process that requires an area for placement and continued preservation. You must always consider the ink that was used to sign the ball because this might wear off or rub off. Sunlight and rubbing off are the two leading concerns for any collector of signed basketballs but sunlight is a major threat since rubbing can be controlled by reducing and as much as possible eliminating contact with the basketball. Controlling these incidences involves careful selection of the area where you want the basketball placed to avoid sunlight and glare from the trophy case.
One of the best ways to store your autographed ball is to put it in an acrylic or glass display case which can be bought in a sports memorabilia shop or even in an online auction websites ranging from $25 to $300. It is preferred mostly by collectors because it is durable and clear. It can keep your item in an untouched condition and a great way to showcase your treasured possession.
When cleaning the ball, remove the acrylic or glass case and take the ball off the stand. Be careful not to have contact with the autographed section. You can put on a pair of winter or latex gloves before you remove the dust to avoid sweat, wet hands, and oil getting in contact with the ball. You can use a dry cloth or a feather duster when cleaning the ball. Carefully move the cloth around the ball and be very careful when cleaning the autographed section.