This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/24/2022
On February 8th 1998, Kobe Bryant became the youngest starter in NBA All-Star Game History at 19 years of age. At the tender age of 19, Kobe squared off against Michael Jordan on the big stage with this being Jordan’s last all-star appearance as a Chicago Bull. This game is simply an unforgettable moment in NBA history as the GOAT squared off against his eager apprentice as the entire world watched. This moment was featured in The Last Dance Documentary as Jordan commented in the Locker room at half time regarding how aggressive and eager Kobe was on offense. Kobe was impressive during the contest as he poured in 18 points and 6 rebounds while regularly going one on one with Jordan.
The sneakers are "apparently" photo matched based on identifying markings on the white outsoles of the sneakers. The shoes have player sample tagging with a manufacturing date marked as “12/18/97”. The shoes display extensive wear that includes scuffs, creases, heavy piling from socks, and even the odor of extended use which leads us to believe that the sneakers were worn for an extended period by Bryant. This colorway and make was debuted by Bryant during the 98’ all-star game but was later seen worn by Bryant during the 1998 western conference quarter finals and also during the 1998 western conference finals. Considering the quality of available images from the game, the sneakers were conservatively deemed as an apparent photo match but there are a number of unique markings on the sneakers that are very similar to game images and this particular colorway was debuted by Bryant at the 98' NBA All-Star game with the gold tip laces and all. The sneakers are accompanied by a 98' NBA All-Star game program, banner and a game used ball from the contest. The shoes have an apparent photo match LOA from RGU (Real Game Used).
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