11/3/1996 Kobe Bryant LA Lakers Rookie Debut Game-Used Home Jersey with Shorts
(2) (Photomatch) (Worn Very First Game of His Career) (DC Sports LOA)
Kobe Bryant’s Iconic 1996 Debut Jersey: A Piece of Basketball History
A Legendary Beginning
Kobe Bryant, a name synonymous with basketball greatness, began his illustrious NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996. Straight out of Lower Merion High School, Bryant was selected 13th overall in the 1996 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets and was subsequently traded to the Lakers. This marked the beginning of a legendary journey that would see him become one of the most celebrated players in NBA history.
The Jersey of a Rising Star
This particular jersey, worn by Bryant during the 1996 pre-season and his regular season debut on November 3, 1996, is a testament to his early promise and potential. The jersey features the iconic “LAKERS” across the front, with Bryant’s number “8” prominently displayed on both the front and back. The player name “BRYANT” is emblazoned on the back, all in purple on white tackle twill. The official NBA embroidered logo in gold adorns the left breast, adding a touch of prestige to this remarkable piece of basketball memorabilia.
Details of the Jersey and Shorts
- Manufacturer: Champion tags with wash instructions and size details.
- Design: Tailored exclusively for the Los Angeles Lakers, with “Body Length + 4” specification.
- Shorts: Matching shorts with Champion tags, player number “8” written in black marker, and official NBA logo.
- Condition: Shows evidence of extensive laundering and discoloration, indicative of game use.
The uniform is properly tagged and was presented to us as game-used, showing excellent use in our opinion. It is accompanied by a DC Sports LOA, further enhancing its authenticity and value.
A Historic Artifact
This jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Kobe Bryant’s early days in the NBA, a time when he was beginning to make his mark on the league. The images accompanying this lot capture moments from Bryant’s preseason debut on October 16th and his regular season debut on November 3rd, 1996. These images, along with the detailed provenance, make this jersey an invaluable addition to any sports memorabilia collection.
For those looking to sell game-worn items or consign NBA jerseys, this piece exemplifies the kind of historic artifacts that Grey Flannel Auctions is proud to handle. Kobe Bryant’s legacy is immortalized in this jersey, a testament to his impact on the game and his enduring influence on basketball culture.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.