A piece of NBA history, Kobe Bryant‘s 2000 Los Angeles Lakers championship replica ring, is currently fetching bids upwards of $141,000 in an auction.
This 14K gold ring, encrusted with 40 diamonds and engraved with “LAKERS,” “WORLD CHAMPIONS,” “BRYANT,” and Kobe’s jersey number “8,” was originally gifted by Kobe to his father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant.
The auction, hosted by Goldin since March 9, offers fans a chance to own a significant memorabilia piece directly connected to Kobe’s legacy. Despite being a replica ordered by Kobe for his father, the ring’s authenticity and sentimental value are unquestionable.
Joe Bryant, now 69, had previously sold the ring to Goldin in 2013 and will not benefit from the current auction. The year 2000 marked a pivotal moment for Kobe and the Lakers, clinching the NBA Championship against the Indiana Pacers and setting the stage for Kobe’s illustrious career, during which he won five championships with the team.
The ring was part of a controversial sale in 2013, including two of Kobe’s high school uniforms, leading to a lawsuit by Kobe against Goldin. The dispute was eventually settled, with Kobe’s parents expressing their regret over the sale and thanking Kobe for his financial support throughout the years.
“We apologize for any misunderstanding and unintended pain we have caused our son and appreciate the financial support he has provided over the years,” stated Kobe’s parents following the resolution of the lawsuit.
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