Kobe Bryant's Staples Center locker expected to fetch up to $1,500,000 at auction: Report
After Kobe Bryant tragically died in January 2020, fans sought unique ways to remember him. The LA Lakers legend lived through many notable moments during his honored NBA career and left notable pieces of memorabilia for his fans.
Kobe's locker room at Staples Center is set to be sold at an auction on Monday morning. According to Will Stern of cllct, the locker could be sold for anywhere between $1 million and $1.5 million.
Auction house Sotheby will be in charge of the process after selling the most expensive Kobe Bryant jersey in history. Kobe's 2007-08 MVP season jersey was sold for $5.8 million in February 2023.
“Kobe Bryant's locker at the Staples Center is more than just a piece of memorabilia; it's a sacred relic of his unparalleled journey,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectables (via The Sporting Tribune).
“This locker was Kobe's sanctuary amidst triumphs and challenges, a witness to the highs and lows of a storied career. Every achievement and hardship left its mark within these walls. Its appearance now at auction symbolizes a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Kobe's legacy.”
Kobe Bryant's Achilles jersey was sold for over $1 million last month
Back in May, Kobe Bryant's game-worn jersey from the Achilles game surpassed the $1 million mark. On May 7, a buyer placed a $1.2 million offer for the jersey at Goldin. At the time, the auction was 24 days away from closing, but nothing changed after that moment. This offer won the bidding competition, although the buyer hasn't been revealed.
Back on April 12, 2013, Bryant was battling it out against the up-and-coming Golden State Warriors. The five-time NBA champion had scored 32 points, four assists and four rebounds when he was fouled by Harrison Barnes in a play that resulted in an injured Achilles.
The situation didn't look good for Kobe and his face confirmed he wasn't feeling well. However, he got up, went to the free-throw line, took his two free throws and exited the game in one of the most impressive moments of his NBA career.