A Collection of 9 Handwritten Letters by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

A record six-time Most Valuable Player, the NBA’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been called “the greatest basketball player of all time” by such accomplished figures as Pat Riley, Isiah Thomas and Julius Irving. Starting in 1969 and over a twenty year career, Abdul-Jabbar’s feats on the court were remarkable and many.

In 1983, the legendary athlete met Brenda Venus, beauty queen and film actress. Ms. Venus had been romantically linked to the famed author and one of the twentieth century's most important literary figures, Henry Miller, until his death in 1980. Indeed, this auction - in addition to the following Kareem Abdul-Jabbar / Brenda Venus lots - also features an important collection of letters written to Brenda by Mr. Miller along with other Henry Miller-related objects.

When Kareem met Brenda, sparks flew. Documented in her book Kareem, A Precious Love, their torrid romance - starting at the height of Abdul-Jabbar's career - lasted years. The following lots - consigned directly by Ms. Venus - reflect on that loving relationship.

9 (nine) letters and notes handwritten by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar mostly written from 1983 through the late 1980’s during his remarkable basketball career. 1 letter (with envelope) from 1993. Some written on stationary with Art Deco border, one on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar letterhead and others from hotels in Atlanta and Bangladesh. The letters were written to Ms. Brenda Venus with whom the basketball great was romantically involved. All are signed “Kareem."

Among the quotable excerpts is "I have never felt this type of loneliness in my life before. I have been alone in Milwaukee and at boarding school. I’ve been the only black person in all white environments…”

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