Over the years, NBA memorabilia has become highly sought after, with some legendary pieces fetching astronomical prices at auctions. Here’s looking at some of the most-loved, high-value items.
Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals Game 1 jersey:
Sold For: $10,000,001
As the GOAT, Michael Jordan is revered on the court but even off it. Topping the chart is Jordan’s jersey featured in Netflix’s The Last Dance documentary on the Chicago Bulls. The jersey was worn in the Game 1 loss to the Utah Jazz. Five games and one famous Jordan shot over Bryon Russell later, the Bulls were champion again for the sixth time in eight years. The auction amount overtook Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” jersey for the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia in history.
Signed Kobe Bryant 2007-08 MVP jersey:
Sold for: $5.8 million
Bryant wore the jersey for 25 of L.A.'s 82 games during the 2007-08 season, including six playoff games. He also wore the uniform when he won the MVP award, the only one in his historic career, at Staples Center in May 2008. Bryant's memorabilia skyrocketed in value following his death in a tragic helicopter crash in January 2020.
LeBron James autographed rookie card:
Sold for: $5.2 million
A signed 2003 James Exquisite Collection patch broke the record for a basketball card sale in 2021.LeBron James is a basketball legend, and his rookie card, numbered out of 23, from the 2003-04 season fetched an astounding $5.2 million at auction in 2021. The card, featuring James in his Cleveland Cavaliers uniform, set a record for the highest price ever paid for a basketball card. This claims the throne for most expensive basketball card, knocking off the $4.6 million one-of-one 2018-19 Panini National Treasures Luka Doncic Logoman RPA sold in March.
Panini National Treasures Stephen Curry Rookie Logoman Autograph:
Sold for $5.9 million
The unique 2009-10 Stephen Curry Autographed National Treasures Logoman Rookie card sold for $5.9 million in July 2021, making it the second most valuable sports card ever behind Honus Wagner’s $6.6 million baseball card. The Curry card is stamped as a 1/1 by Panini America Inc. which means only one remains in existence. The card marks the beginning of the Warriors dynasty he helped to build as they won four NBA Championships in eight years.
Metta World Peace's 2010 NBA Championship ring
Sold for $5 million
Metta World Peace or Ron Artest (his previous name) auctioned his championship ring for a charity and raised more than $500,000 for the ring. The proceeds fund mental health services for youths who can't afford counseling. The online raffle was announced exclusively on "Larry King Live" and the winner was selected through a draw.
The prices fetched by these items only reflect the enduring legacy of iconic players and unforgettable moments that have shaped the NBA into a global phenomenon today. It is an allure that is not changing anytime soon and, if anything, will only gain more popularity with time.
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