The ball Kobe Bryant used to win his first-ever NBA championship simply fetched a small fortune on the public sale block.
Officers at Sotheby’s stated after two weeks of bidding on the artifact — which was autographed by Bryant and a few of his Lakers teammates, together with Shaquille O’Neal, following Los Angeles’ victory over the Pacers within the 2000 NBA Finals — the piece finally bought for $508,000.
The hefty price ticket set an public sale report — it’s now the most costly championship-clinching ball ever. The earlier mark had been held by the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, whose 2025 title prize went for $107,950.
Sotheby’s stated the ball was photomatched by specialists, which was used all through their 116-111 Sport 6 victory over the Pacers at Staples Heart in Los Angeles.
Through the June 19, 2000 tilt, Bryant scored 26 factors and added 10 rebounds and 4 assists. O’Neal poured in 41 factors with 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. The five-point win gave the duo its first championships of their illustrious careers.
Bryant would go on to win 5. O’Neal ended his 19-year profession with 4.
The victory additionally gave the Lakers their first ring since 1988.
Bryant, who died in a 2020 helicopter crash, stated following the win it was “all the pieces and extra.”
“Lakers colours falling from the ceiling, the followers going loopy,” Bryant stated, “I acquired the hat on and all the pieces overlaying my fro, it feels nice.”
A second Lakers championship ball — the one Bryant and O’Neal used to win the 2001 NBA Finals — additionally bought on the Sotheby’s block on Thursday for $317,500.
