This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2015
Featured here is an extraordinary pair of Kobe Bryant game-worn sneakers from a January 4, 2015 home game against the Indiana Pacers, signed and inscribed by Kobe and sourced directly from Panini as part of their exclusive contract with "The Black Mamba." Kobe scored 20 points on 7-14 shooting with 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals in the Lakers' 88-87 win at the Staples Center. More importantly he hit two clutch shots down the stretch, including a tough 3-pointer from the left wing with 2 minutes to go and then the game-winning jump hook in the lane with 12 seconds left. Injuries have taken their toll on Kobe in his latter years due to all the heavy mileage he has put on his body since debuting in the NBA at 18 years old. Two weeks after this game, he was sidelined for the remainder of the season with a rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder. At age 36, Kobe averaged 22.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 35 games during the 2014-15 season.
These stylish Nike "Kobe IX Elite" model shoes come in white with a Laker-themed purple Swoosh and black midsole. The lightweight, high-top design is similar to a wrestling shoe as they are tall, thin, and flexible at the ankle. The interior tagging shoes his size 14 along with "SEASON H014" and "PROMO SAMPLE" confirming that they were player-issued and not for public consumption. Unique black insoles are custom-fitted inside to provide additional support for Kobe's feet; a torn Achilles ended his 2012-13 season and wiped out most of 2013-14 as well. The tongues have Kobe's unique Nike gear logo in black and his facsimile signature stamped in purple. Nine red stripes appear horizontally on the heels. The shoes come with their original white laces and show appropriate game use. Kobe has signed both shoes near the heel and inscribed the right with "1-14-15 vs. Pacers" on the purple Swoosh in shiny 10/10 silver pen. He put the wrong date as the game was actually 1-4-15; game images clearly show him wearing these shoes. Original Panini black box included.
Includes hologrammed COA (PA33994) from Panini Authentic, Kobe's exclusive memorabilia provider. Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.