bleacherreport
The Realest has announced that it will auction a pair of game-worn Air Jordan 8 sneakers worn by Kobe Bryant during his 'sneaker free agency' season. The auction, revealed in a press release on Wednesday, will close on November 8.
Bryant donned the exclusive Air Jordans when the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics 104-96 on March 21, 2003. Each shoe bears Bryant's signature and his No. 8 inscription, making the pair a unique collectible.
During his career, Bryant was signed to Adidas and later Nike, but the 2002-03 campaign marked a period when he was a sneaker free agent after leaving Adidas and before joining Nike. He wore various shoes that season, including these Air Jordan exclusives that were specifically designed for him.
Bryant, who famously emulated Michael Jordan, especially early in his career, wore the shoes during the final season of Jordan's own playing career. Despite the connection, Bryant appeared in all 82 games that season and finished third in MVP voting, earning All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive First Team honors. The Lakers, winners of the previous three championships, fell in the second round of the playoffs.
In the victory over Boston, Bryant had a modest scoring night with 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting, but contributed seven assists, three rebounds, one block, and one steal. Now, someone will have the opportunity to own the shoes he wore during that performance.
Key Analysis
The auction of these game-worn Air Jordan 8s offers collectors a tangible piece of Bryant's iconic career, specifically from a transitional period when he was between sneaker deals. The shoes not only represent his on-court excellence but also his deep connection to Michael Jordan's legacy, adding significant historical and emotional value.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.