Kobe Bryant’s Debut Lakers Jersey Sells for $7 Million at Auction

The jersey worn by NBA icon Kobe Bryant in his inaugural game with the Los Angeles Lakers has been auctioned off for an astounding $7 million. This sale positions it as the fourth most valuable sports jersey ever sold.

Bryant’s remarkable NBA journey commenced with the Lakers in the 1996-97 season. He exhibited unwavering dedication to the franchise throughout his illustrious 20-year career.

During his tenure, he secured five NBA championships and earned the title of league’s Most Valuable Player in 2008.

Sotheby’s, a distinguished auction house renowned for handling rare and significant collectibles, managed the auction.

Quote from Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectibles:

Brahm Wachter, the head of modern collectibles at Sotheby’s, remarked, “This jersey signifies a genuinely legendary moment in sports history. Debut games are truly unparalleled milestones in an athlete’s career.”

Originally acquired for $115,242 in 2013, the jersey’s value surged dramatically after Bryant’s untimely passing in a helicopter accident in 2020, which also tragically took the life of his daughter, Gianna.

Bryant ranks as the fourth highest scorer in NBA history, amassing 33,643 career points.

The most expensive sports jersey ever sold is Babe Ruth’s “called shot” jersey, which was sold for $24 million. Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance” jersey, worn during his final season with the Chicago Bulls, is second on the list at $10.1 million. Diego Maradona’s legendary “Hand of God” jersey, worn during the 1986 FIFA World Cup match against England, holds third place at $8.8 million.