Kobe Bryant

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 8/10

Recent sales show +30% gain in raw prices over 30 days and steady graded demand; enduring Kobe legacy post-passing sustains interest

Next months. Continued upward momentum next 3-6 months with summer auction peaks

Long term. Stable to rising over 1-3 years as supply grades out and Kobe demand persists

History

Kobe Bean Bryant (August 23, 1978 - January 26, 2020) was a high school phenom, ranked as the Number 1 high school basketball player in the country, and recipient of the 1996 Naismith Prep Player of the Year award, averaging 30.8 points, 12 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 4.0 steals in his senior season before entering the NBA with the Lakers.

1996-97 Topps Basketball set, released in 1996

• This is Kobe Bryant's base rookie card from Topps #138 (noted as 171 in some references, but confirmed as #138)
• Kobe is a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest Lakers players
• High school dominance led directly to his #13 overall draft pick by Charlotte, traded to Lakers

Rarity and print run

Tier

Common

Print run

Very High

First printed in

1996-97 Topps Basketball

Demand

High

Supply

High

• Mass-produced base rookie from flagship Topps set
• High graded 10 population of 5137 indicates abundant supply
• Value driven by grade quality rather than inherent scarcity

Collector notes

Condition. Check for centering issues, edge wear, surface scratches, and print defects common on high-volume 1990s Topps cards; corners prone to dings, watch for wax stains on borders

Storage. Use semi-rigid holders or top-loaders with sleeves in cool, dry environment; avoid direct light to prevent fading

Authenticity. Verify card stock thickness and glossy finish matching originals; check for correct copyright dates and holofoil absence on base; graded/graded grading recommended for high value