Kobe Bryant rose to national prominence in 1996 when he became the first guard in league history to be drafted out of high school. Along with teammate Shaquille O'Neal, Bryant led the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002, and since Shaq's departure Bryant has become the cornerstone of the Lakers' Franchise. He was the NBA leading scorer during the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons. These sneakers were worn in the spring of Kobe’s rookie season of 1996-97. They are “adidas” manufactured black with white trim. Inside the tongue is a white label with size “13.5” and “03/97.” On the outer right side of each is an autograph done in silver pen, each rating a 7. The sneakers show game-use and are accompanied by a LOA from JSA.