How Old Jerseys Got Hot

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Capolino says Harley introduced three valuable principles to his business. First, you don't have to give away your product to promote it. If even celebrities have to pay, the jerseys have more allure. Second, forget about fall and spring collections. Stagger new releases to keep customers wanting the hottest new model. Finally, know your colors. M&N quadrupled production of popular shades like powder blue (Lance Alworth, San Diego Chargers, 1963; Bob McAdoo, Buffalo Braves, 1975) and lime green (Pete Maravich, Atlanta Hawks, 1972).

Despite his newfound stardom, courtesy of a spot in a popular rap video and a weekly gig on a Philadelphia sports talk-radio program, success hasn't swelled Harley's head. After watching a recent Sixers game from his second-row seat, Harley left the arena and pulled away in his company car, a $50,000 Cadillac Escalade. But he stopped when he recognized a policeman who once worked in West Philly. "Hey, you got a slice of cake for me?" the cop asked. "Just remember those old days." Harley laughed. How could he forget? These days the old days are his business.