Every NBA fan would love to have an autograph from their favorite athlete, but often the cost of basketball autographs are out of reach for many. Whether it's the cost factor or the concern as to whether or not a paid autograph is authentic, many are looking toward the athletes themselves for free basketball autographs.

One of the best places to start with, or build on to, your basketball autograph collection is through the Basketball Hall of Fame. As a general rule, halls of fame are very accommodating to fans and their request for autographs. The halls do not personally provide the autographs, but they will generally forward all fan mail to the athletes for handling.

Quite often, the best time to request autographs is after an athlete has retired from the game of basketball. During the height of their career, most basketball stars are flooded with requests for their autograph, which can make it difficult to respond to each one individually. When requesting an autograph, always send a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) with enough postage to accommodate the return mailing costs. If you are sending your own basketball collectible to be signed, including a photo or trading card, make sure that the envelope size will accommodate the item without it having to be bent. For investment purposes, basketball autographs will be their most valuable if they are in mint condition.

When addressing your envelope for mailing, make sure that you place the basketball player's name at the top, which would be followed by the address for the hall of fame.

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
1000 West Columbus Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105