Here is the holy grail of Timberwolves authentics: the 1989 MacGregor Sand-Knit Pooh Richardson model.
MacGregor Sand-Knit was the official outfitter for the Timberwolves for their 1989–90 inaugural season only, after which Champion took over. The company also invented the notion of NBA retail jerseys, offering replica and authentic versions from the mid-1980s up until Champion secured the exclusive NBA license beginning in 1990.
In the fall of 1989, when the Timberwolves were set to begin their first campaign, fans of the new franchise could purchase this authentic jersey from a mail-order catalogue for the equivalent of about $250 in today's money. To my knowledge, the only authentic Wolves jersey made available was that of Jerome "Pooh" Richardson, Minnesota's first-ever draft pick, who in 1989 was the personification of the hope of his new expansion team. Pro basketball was back in Minneapolis after decades of waiting, but only the most excited of fans would have purchased this expensive authentic jersey.
This particular example is unusual in that it features Richardson's name on the back. Sand-Knit did not have a license with the player's union, so they could not make retail jerseys with names on the back. This must have been added later on, perhaps in 1989 by a local sports shop or it could have been done more recently. In any event, this is a nice bonus feature of the jersey.
The jersey is tagged size 42, and here's the exact measurements:
I am only selling this grail because I managed to find it in a size that fits me a bit better.
If you're hoping to receive this in time for the whiteout games this week, I am happy to offer local pickup in Minneapolis.
Feel free to reach out with any questions!
James