Kareem had announced that he would retire after the 1984-85 campaign. As such, a farewell tour was planned for the season with each opposing team honoring him during his final appearance at their arenas. The rare and beautiful sign on offer here hung at the Meadowlands Arena to promote a tribute night the Nets had planned for Kareem. Artist T. Smith depicts the powerful center, from the shoulders up, shooting his famed skyhook, with his head and Adidas wristband-clad arm in the clouds. Reads “The New Jersey Nets Salute Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, The NBA's All-Time Leading Scorer. December 5, 1984, Meadowlands Arena.” Ironically, in a press conference before the game, Kareem announced that he had decided to play at least one more year (in reality he played four more). The Nets still went on with the tribute, which included a ten-minute highlight video and appearances by Kareem's Power Memorial High School teammates and his parents. The foam-backed advertising sign was produced by “Adidas USA, 1984,” is signed “Abdul-Jabbar” in ballpoint, and measures 34x22”. The sign has light wear on the corners but is in otherwise stellar condition. The autograph grades an 8.5/10. A unique and fantastic display piece.