1996-97 Kobe Bryant Rookie Los Angeles Lakers Game-Used & Twice-Autographed Road Jersey

Kobe Bryant’s 1996-97 Game-Worn Lakers Jersey: A Tribute to a Legend

The Rise of a Basketball Icon

Kobe Bryant, a name synonymous with excellence and tenacity, began his illustrious career with the Los Angeles Lakers as a rookie who quickly captivated fans with his high-flying prowess. His victory in the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest was just the beginning of a career that would see him lead the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. In 2008, Bryant’s exceptional performance earned him the regular season MVP award, and he continued to lead the Lakers to triumph in the 2009 and 2010 NBA Finals, securing the Finals MVP award on both occasions.

As the all-time leading scorer in Lakers franchise history, Kobe Bryant’s legacy is unparalleled. Since his second year in the league, he started in every NBA All-Star Game, amassing fourteen All-Star appearances and winning the All-Star Game MVP Award four times. In 2009, Sporting News honored him as the top NBA player of the 2000s, cementing his status as a basketball legend.

A Jersey of Historical Significance

This remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia is a testament to Kobe Bryant’s early years with the Lakers. The jersey features the “Champion” manufacturer’s tag with size “44” and wash instructions, alongside another “Champion” tag reading “DESIGNED & TAILORED EXCLUSIVELY FOR LOS ANGELES LAKERS 96/97” with “BODY LENGTH +4”. The left inseam bears the “100% NYLON” tag with “BA” inscribed in blue ink.

Embroidered in gold on the left chest is the official “NBA” logo, commemorating the NBA’s 50th Season. The front of the jersey proudly displays “LAKERS” in yellow on white tackle twill, with the player number “8” in white on yellow tackle twill both on the front and back. The player name “BRYANT” is emblazoned across the back in yellow on white tackle twill.

Signatures and Provenance

Kobe Bryant has signed the number “8” on both the front and back of the jersey in blue marker, with the added inscription “8”. In our opinion, the signatures rate a 7 overall. The jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used, and in our opinion shows excellent use. This extraordinary artifact is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA.

• Historical Significance: Worn during Kobe Bryant’s rookie season, marking the beginning of a legendary career.
• Iconic Player: Represents Kobe Bryant, a five-time NBA champion and one of the greatest players in basketball history.
• Unique Provenance: Presented as game-used, with signatures authenticated by JSA.
• Condition and Story: The jersey’s excellent condition reflects the early promise and enduring legacy of Kobe Bryant.

This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Kobe Bryant’s indelible mark on the game of basketball. For those looking to own a piece of history, this jersey is a rare and valuable addition to any sports memorabilia collection. If you are interested in acquiring or consigning similar items, explore our consignment opportunities or consider having your items appraised by our experts.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.