Sotheby’s New York is set to auction two of the most significant pieces of basketball memorabilia: game-worn rookie jerseys from Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. These historic items are expected to command a combined $20 million, as collectors and fans vie for a chance to own a piece of NBA history.

Kobe Bryant’s Rookie Jersey

Bryant’s jersey has been photo-matched to his first NBA Media Day, preseason, and regular season debut, making it one of the earliest documented pieces from his legendary career. Though he had a slow start in his rookie season, his 1997 Slam Dunk Contest victory was an early indicator of his future greatness.

Michael Jordan’s Rookie Jersey

Jordan’s jersey holds even greater historical intrigue. Due to budget constraints in the 1980s, the Bulls repurposed previous players’ jerseys, and Jordan’s was no exception. Photo-matching confirms he wore it in his second and third NBA games, making it the first authenticated Jordan rookie jersey ever offered at auction. Authentication firm MeiGrey even suggests it could be the very first jersey Jordan wore in an NBA game. Unlike Bryant, Jordan’s impact was immediate, securing All-Star and All-NBA honors in his rookie year.

Auction Details

Both jerseys will be sold in single-lot sales at Sotheby’s York Avenue galleries starting March 21, 2025. With their unmatched significance, these jerseys are expected to break records in the sports memorabilia market. Get full details on Kobe and Jordan jerseys.

Stay tuned for updates on the auction and final sale prices.

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