Legendary player Kobe Bryant tragically died in a helicopter crash along with his daughter in January 2020. The five-time NBA champion may no longer be with us, but his memories live on. NBA fans now have the opportunity to acquire Bryant’s rare belongings, which were recently discovered.
According to recent reports by TMZ Sports, Bryant’s Staples Center locker, which was thought to have been lost during the building’s 2018 renovation, was recently found. A maintenance worker from the center protected it as he recognized that it belonged to the legendary player. The Maintenance worker sold the locker after keeping it for years to an American Collector because that collector had the nameplate of the same locker.
The 18-time NBA all-star locker will be auctioned by Sotheby’s, the premier destination for auctions and private sales of rare items. Bryant’s locker is expected to be sold for up to $1.2 million.
“In keeping with Kobe Bryant’s legacy of philanthropy and community impact, a portion of the proceeds from the sale will directly benefit The Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation,” Sotheby’s told TMZ Sports.
The Auction Will Showcase More Than Kobe Bryant’s Locker
The auction will feature more than just Bryant’s locker. It will also include rare items such as the shorts the legendary player Michael Jordan wore during the 2002-03 season against the Washington Wizards. Another valuable item expected to be auctioned is Diego Maradona’s game-used and autographed Argentina shirt from the second half of the 1985 World Cup, valued at over $800,000.
Bryant, who played his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, has been an inspiration for many players in different sports. He motivated fans worldwide with his mentality, known as the Mamba Mentality. Throughout his professional career, he achieved numerous milestones, including being an 18-time All-Star, a 15-time member of the All-NBA Team, a 12-time member of the All-Defensive Team, the 2008 NBA MVP, and a two-time NBA Finals MVP. He is often discussed in the greatest of all-time debates alongside Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Moreover, during a recent interview, Dwyane Wade highlighted the key difference between James and Bryant.
The online bidding for the auction will commence on August 2nd.
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