Specifications
Year of Manufacture
1947
Manufacturer
Chicago Coin
Dimensions
Height: 195 cm
Width: 69 cm
Depth: 128 cm
More info (external)
“Basketball Champ is Great Fun to Play!”
Howie Dallmar
Forward, Philadelphia Warriors
The story of the Basketball Champ arcade machine
Step into the time machine...
… and land in post-war America. A country in transition. A place where the gaming industry, after years of building war machines, is blooming back into life.
This is Basketball Champ by Chicago Coin – a rare arcade machine from 1947. Built using wood that was once destined for the Spruce Goose, the legendary aircraft designed by aviation pioneer Howard Hughes.
A true showpiece from top to bottom: finely crafted woodwork, colorful detailing, and dazzling electromechanical ingenuity.
How does Basketball Champ work?
On the court, you’ll find two metal players. The defender moves on his own, powered by a clever system of gears and motors. The attacker is controlled by you. Time your shot just right and score by sneaking the ball past the defender and into the basket. And then do it again. Fifteen times in a row.
Back to basics? Absolutely. Easy? Not even close.
The steady rhythm of this electromechanical game has a calming charm – it’s almost hypnotic. It takes you back to a slower, simpler time. A time when the most beautiful amusement machines were built, fully by hand.
Gaming history you can rent
With its captivating gameplay and beautifully lit cabinet, Basketball Champ was a huge hit in its day. Today, it’s extremely rare. You’ll hardly ever see one – and certainly not in this condition. Not in game rooms, not at collector expos.
But you can rent it at Ballen van Staal. And if you’re looking to impress someone who has it all – or add a one-of-a-kind conversation piece to your event – this Basketball Champ arcade machine by Chicago Coin is exactly what you need.
Want to see more? Check out our full lineup!
Start your arcade adventure here.
Curious to know what we can do for your location? Feel free to reach out.
Who knows – you might soon be setting that high score on one of our games!
