Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant's Rookie Jerseys Expected to Fetch $20M at Auction

Sotheby’s will auction the first game-worn NBA jerseys of the basketball legends, marking a rare opportunity for collectors.

Michael Jordan’s rookie jersey from his 1984 preseason debut with the Chicago Bulls and Kobe Bryant’s rookie jersey from his 1996 debut with the Los Angeles Lakers will be auctioned separately by Sotheby’s.
The jerseys are expected to sell for a combined total of $20 million, with each anticipated to bring in around $10 million due to their rarity and historical significance.
Jordan’s jersey, authenticated through photo-matching, includes stains from its repurposed use, symbolizing his early career beginnings before becoming a global icon.
Bryant’s jersey, also authenticated, was worn during his preseason debut, first regular-season game, and NBA Media Day, representing the start of his illustrious career.
Both jerseys will be on public display at Sotheby’s New York starting March 21, with auction dates set for March 12–26 for Jordan’s jersey and April 10–24 for Bryant’s.