Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jersey Sells for $7 Million at Auction – 4th Most Expensive Game-Worn Jersey Ever

Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jersey Sells for $7 Million at Auction – 4th Most Expensive Game-Worn Jersey Ever

A historic piece of NBA memorabilia just changed hands, Kobe Bryant’s jersey from his 1996 Los Angeles Lakers debut has sold for an astounding $7 million at auction, making it the fourth-most expensive game-worn sports jersey of all time.

Key Details:

• Auction Sale Price: $7 million (approx. £5.26 million)
• Worn During: Kobe Bryant's 1996–97 rookie season with the Lakers
• Debut Game: November 3, 1996 vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Previous Sale Price: $115,242 in 2013
• Auction House: Sotheby’s

“Debut games are truly one-of-a-kind moments in an athlete’s career,” said Brahm Wachter, head of modern collectibles at Sotheby’s.

Kobe Bryant’s Legendary Career:

• 20 Seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers (1996–2016)
• 5× NBA Champion
• 2008 NBA MVP
• 18× All-Star selection
• 33,643 Career Points – 4th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list

Most Expensive Game-Worn Jerseys at Auction:

1. Babe Ruth’s “Called Shot” Jersey – $24 million
2. Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance” Jersey – $10.1 million
3. Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” Shirt – $8.8 million
4. Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jersey – $7 million

This sale not only honors Bryant’s legendary NBA debut, but also cements his legacy among the most revered athletes in sports history. The record-breaking price reflects Kobe's global impact, both on and off the court.