‘The Mamba Mentality’ is synonymous with only one name in the NBA realm – Kobe Bryant. Playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant soon became a legend within a very short period of time. Despite his indifferences with iconic teammates like Shaquille O’Neal, it was Bryant’s ability to adapt that made him stand out from the rest. Spending the entirety of his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant a sorry farewell to the world in the most tragic manner possible.
On January 26, 2020, Bryant, along with his daughter Gianna and other family members, experienced a brutal helicopter crash. As per reports, the entire occupants of the aircraft were killed on impact, leaving a huge blank space in the NBA. However, before his demise, Bryant got the opportunity to keep his fans thrilled. Here’s a look back at the illustrious career of the NBA legend.
How Many NBA Rings Does Kobe Bryant Have?
Kobe Bryant oozed special skills. While playing for the Lakers, he wreaked havoc as he guided his team to five NBA championships. During the 2000-01 to 2009-10 timeline, the Los Angeles Lakers became an invincible force thanks to Bryant’s heroics. During his time with the Lakers, not only did he win five prestigious NBA rings, but he was also a two-time NBA finals MVP.
Displaying his Mamba Mentality in full glory, Kobe became an NBA All-Star a whopping 18 times. After winning it initially in 1998, Bryant was featured on the team from 2000 to 2016 straight. Even his archrival, Michael Jordan, had to acknowledge the effort and discipline that Kobe Bryant put into each of his games. Interestingly, as if to further glorify Bryant’s legacy, one of his NBA rings was sold for a record price.
For How Much Is Bryant’s Ring Getting Sold?
In a recent turn of events, Bryant’s 2000 NBA Championship ring was auctioned in early 2024, followed by the auction of his locker at Staples Center after four months. Setting the record for being the most expensive NBA ring, the souvenir sold for a whopping $927,200. The auction was conducted by Goldin Auctions during the March Elite Auction. However, the identity of the buyer has not been revealed.
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This also became the most expensive NBA ring given as a gift. In reality, the ring was a gift from Kobe to Joe Bryant. Soon after winning the ring, Kobe ordered another copy ring that he gifted to his father. Thus, with an exceptional career, Kobe Bryant is a name that will be etched in the NBA folklore for generations to come.
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