Kobe Bryant's legendary sneakers worn during the 2013 "Achilles Game" are set to be auctioned at Sotheby's in New York on February 7. The Nike Kobe 8 Elite "Lakers Home" sneakers are estimated to sell for between $600,000 and $800,000.
This game, played against the Golden State Warriors, is etched in NBA history as Bryant tore his Achilles tendon yet continued to play, making two free throws on one leg. This moment epitomized his famed "Mamba Mentality," showcasing his relentless drive and commitment to excellence. As he left the court, he received a thunderous standing ovation from the Staples Center crowd.
Sotheby's auction, titled "The One," will highlight the finest examples of human achievement in craft and artistry. Brahm Wachter, head of modern collectibles at Sotheby's, emphasized the significance of these sneakers, stating, "There is no moment in Kobe's career more emblematic of the 'Mamba Mentality' than the 'Achilles Game.'"
The auction comes as a poignant tribute, coinciding with the five-year anniversary of Bryant's tragic passing in 2020. Despite his death, Nike continues to release products under the Kobe brand, and his wife, Vanessa Bryant, actively promotes his legacy through charitable endeavors.