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

Kobe Bryant’s 1996-97 Los Angeles Lakers Game-Worn Jersey

A Legendary Career Begins

In the annals of basketball history, few names resonate as profoundly as Kobe Bryant. As a rookie, Bryant quickly established himself as a high-flyer and a fan favorite, clinching the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest. His prowess on the court led the Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. In 2008, he was awarded the regular season’s MVP, further cementing his legacy. After a setback in the 2008 NBA Finals, Bryant’s determination shone through as he led the Lakers to two consecutive championships in 2009 and 2010, earning the NBA Finals MVP Award on both occasions.

The Jersey: A Piece of Basketball History

This remarkable jersey, worn by Bryant during the 1996-97 season, is a testament to his early career achievements. The jersey is adorned with the iconic “LAKERS” across the front in yellow on white tackle twill, with the player number “8” prominently displayed on both the front and back. Kobe’s signature graces both the front and back numbers in blue marker, accompanied by the inscription “8,” which rates a 7 in terms of clarity and preservation.

• Manufacturer’s Tag: The left front tail features the “Champion” manufacturer’s tag with wash instructions and size “44”.
• Exclusive Design: Adjacent to the manufacturer’s tag is the “Designed & Tailored Exclusively for the Los Angeles Lakers Body Length +4 96-97” tag.
• Player Name: “BRYANT” appears across the back in yellow on white tackle twill.
• NBA Logo: The official NBA logo is embroidered in gold at the left chest.

The jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion, shows excellent use. It is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, adding to its credibility and allure.

A Legacy of Excellence

Kobe Bryant’s impact on the game is immeasurable. As the all-time leading scorer in Lakers franchise history, his legacy is celebrated by fans and collectors alike. Since his second year in the league, Bryant has started in every NBA All-Star Game, making fourteen All-Star appearances and winning the All-Star MVP Award four times. In 2009, Sporting News named him the top NBA player of the 2000s decade, a testament to his enduring influence and skill.

This jersey is not just a piece of basketball memorabilia; it is a symbol of Kobe Bryant’s indomitable spirit and his contributions to the sport. For collectors and enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to own a fragment of basketball history, a piece that embodies the excellence and passion of one of the game’s greatest players. Explore more about this and other sports memorabilia auctions at Grey Flannel Auctions, where legends come to life.

Whether you are looking to sell your own sports memorabilia or simply appreciate the rich history of the game, this jersey is a must-have for any serious collector. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of Kobe Bryant’s legacy, a testament to his greatness and the unforgettable moments he created on the court.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.