In the final regular-season game of the 1957-58 season, his third year as a pro, the Cincinnati Royals all-star fell to the floor, hit his head and was knocked unconscious. Three days later, the 24-year-old went into a coma and was permanently paralyzed, his career over. His life, however, wasn't over, thanks mostly to teammate Jack Twyman, who helped to raise money for his medical expenses and became his legal guardian. Twyman started an exhibition game in Stokes' honor and established the Maurice Stokes Foundation to defray hospital costs. Stokes passed away in 1970 and was posthumously elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Very rare vintage 2.75 x 7 magazine photo of Stokes positioning himself for a rebound in his St. Francis uniform, signed in green ink. In fine condition, with a bisecting horizontal fold. COA Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
