Kobe Bryant

Market outlook

Stable Outlook 6/10

Consistent low-volume sales with prices holding steady; Kobe's enduring popularity supports floor but common status caps upside.

Next months. Stable with minor fluctuations from auction volume

Long term. Gradual rise as supply wears and Kobe nostalgia grows

History

Kobe Bryant was a legendary NBA player for the Los Angeles Lakers, drafted in 1996 at age 17 straight out of high school, becoming a 5-time champion, 18-time All-Star, and one of basketball's greatest scorers with iconic Mamba Mentality; this card captures him early in his career during the 1999-2000 season.

First released in 1999 as part of Upper Deck Ovation basketball trading card set in the United States.

• Kobe's rookie year was 1996-97 Topps Chrome, making 1999 cards mid-career but highly sought after from his Lakers championship era
• Upper Deck Ovation set known for platinum film technology and subsets like Spotlight featuring this #26 base card
• Card depicts young Kobe in Lakers uniform, significant for collectors tracking his rise post-3 championships by 2002

Rarity and print run

Tier

Common

Print run

Very High

First printed in

1999 Upper Deck Ovation

Demand

Medium

Supply

Abundant

• Base card from high-print run flagship set
• No serial numbering or special variants noted
• Volume low for high grades like graded 10 due to condition sensitivity

Collector notes

Condition. Check corners for dings, edges for chipping, centering (common off-center print), surface for print defects or scratches; Upper Deck cards prone to roller marks and platinum film scratches.

Storage. Use semi-rigid top loaders or magnetic holders, store in cool dry place away from sunlight, avoid stacking without sleeves to prevent Newton rings.

Authenticity. Look for Upper Deck hologram and precise card stock thickness; fakes rare for commons but check UV light for security features; graded/graded grading recommended for verification.