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Quick Bytes
- Kobe Bryant’s Staples Center locker is up for auction with an estimate of $1-1.5 million.
- The locker was preserved by a maintenance worker during renovations in 2018.
- A portion of the auction’s proceeds will benefit the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation.
- Paul George honors Kobe by choosing jersey No. 8 with the Philadelphia 76ers.
A Piece of Basketball History: Kobe Bryant’s Locker Auction
Sotheby’s in New York has unveiled a unique piece of sports history: the auction of Kobe Bryant’s Staples Center locker. This iconic item is part of the ALTITUDE Capsule Collection and is expected to fetch between $1 and $1.5 million, with bids accepted until August 2.
The locker, a silent witness to Kobe’s illustrious career, was saved from disposal by a diligent maintenance worker in 2018. It has since been acquired by a collector who also owns Kobe’s original locker nameplate. Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectables, Brahm Wachter, emphasizes the locker’s significance as a testament to Kobe’s journey in the NBA, marking milestones like his 81-point game and the 2010 NBA Finals victory.
Prospective buyers can view the locker at Sotheby’s New York galleries from July 26 to July 30, alongside other sports memorabilia. In a gesture honoring Kobe’s legacy, a part of the auction’s proceeds will support the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation, which aids underserved youth.
Additionally, Kobe’s influence extends beyond memorabilia, as seen with NBA player Paul George. Embracing his new start with the Philadelphia 76ers, George has chosen to wear jersey No. 8 as a tribute to his idol Kobe, who also has roots in Philadelphia.
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