S otheby’s is proud to present, Los Angeles Lakers | Capsule Collection.
The Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and uplifting the youth through education, sports, and community outreach and the official team charity of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Foundation’s mission is to help underserved youth develop their potential by providing positive experiences and resources in education, health and wellness, and sports. The Foundation also awards grants to other charities that support youth through direct services and programs in these areas.
In this auction, immerse yourself in the storied history of the Los Angeles Lakers. Sotheby’s, MeiGray, and The Los Angeles Lakers are pleased to present a captivating collection of iconic memorabilia that spans the eras of this legendary NBA franchise. From iconic jerseys to replica championship trophies and game-worn sneakers, each item is a testament to the Lakers' legendary history and indomitable spirit.
Among the sale is Kobe Bryant’s Game Worn Jersey from Game 1 of the 2009 NBA Finals, the greatest NBA Finals performance of Kobe’s career.
When Kobe Bryant led the Los Angeles Lakers to the 2009 NBA Finals, the bitter taste of coming up short in his last two appearances was almost palpable. Despite posting the most dominant performance of his NBA Finals career in Game 1 win (in this jersey) with 40 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists, it was clear to anyone watching the post-game press conference that Bryant was far from satisfied.
“I think the best thing we can do is just forget about it,” Bryant would say after the Game 1 win over the Orlando Magic.
His stony demeanor on the press podium would come to embody his mentality in the second half of his career: the “Mamba Mentality.”
The job was not finished (Bryant would famously remark after the Lakers’ Game 2 win), until his opponent was.
The 2009 NBA Finals was the 4th championship of Bryant’s career, but this one felt different. This team was his. He no longer stood in the shadow of Shaquille O’Neal, the de facto leader of the Lakers’ early 2000s dynasty. After imposing his will on the Magic on both sides of the ball, game after game, Kobe had secured his first NBA Finals MVP and in the process, cemented his legacy as one of the most lethal basketball players the world had ever seen.
After clinching the championship in Game 5, Kobe was asked how winning compared to his previous three rings. Bryant’s tone was noticeably more relaxed.
“Well,” he said smiling, “I just don't have to hear that criticism – that idiotic criticism – anymore.”
This time, he had achieved his dream on his own terms, proving to the world that he was more than just “1B” to Shaq's “1A” —he was the Black Mamba, a legend in his own right, destined to be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of select memorabilia will directly benefit the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation. Please refer to the catalogue note as to which items support the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation, as not all items do.
The Lakers Youth Foundation funds STEM Lab Projects, Reading and Learning Centers, basketball court construction and renovation projects throughout Los Angeles County and in Hawaii, and other initiatives and projects. In addition, Lakers have also contributed millions of dollars to worthy charitable causes and organizations, including through ticket donations, autographed memorabilia, Lakers merchandise, and countless appearances made by current players, Lakers Legends and the Laker Girls.
