Lobby cards were typically displayed in movie theaters to attract audiences to see the movie. They were usually actual pictures from the movie to attract viewers. Typically they came in sets of 8 cards with different pictures that were either 8x10 or 11x14 inches. This signed card is 11x14 inches. This picture was actually a behind the scenes rehearsal because in the movie, Kareem wore a light blue shirt.
In the mid 90’s, Kareem launched a line of sports clothing and shoes that were sold at Target. He made an appearance at the superstore in Pasadena, CA and there was a long line that wrapped around the block.
Of course, everyone brought basketball and Lakers memorabilia for him to sign. I was one of the last in line that was allowed to get his signature. We aited in line for several hours.
When I presented the lobby card to him, he asked if he could take a second to look at it. He said he hasn’t seen that picture in a while. The Security Guards that were there to protect him from crazy fans were freaking out over the picture too! They told me I was the only one who brought Bruce Lee/Kareem photos to this event! The rule was that he signed only one piece of memorabilia.
So I kindly asked him if he could also sign the picture of him with Bruce and the rest of the LA Chinatown students. He replied, “Yes! Of course!” The Security Guards were in awe again! He looked at the class photo and you could tell he was reminiscing in his head about those days and that it was a very important time and moment in his life. I will find that photo and post it later.
