Part of the revenue from the Kobe Bryant memorabilia that will be sold next month will go toward a charity aimed at bullying awareness. Several pieces, including two Bryant high school uniforms and his 2000 NBA All-Star ring, will be in the auction. The BULLY Project, supported by Bryant, was founded by movie director Lee Hirsch after the release of his 2012 film BULLY and is aimed at changing a culture of bullying into one of empathy and action. Since BULLY’s theatrical release, the film has been seen by 1.8 million students, plus their parents, teachers and advocates.
Goldin Auctions, which reached a deal with Bryant’s family to sell the items, says 50% of the proceeds from four lots will go toward the BULLY Project.
“We are pleased to partner with The BULLY Project on this high-profile auction of rare Kobe Bryant memorabilia.” said Ken Goldin, founder of Goldin Auctions. “All of the bidders on these four unique items can feel good knowing that, in addition to adding historic memorabilia to their collection, they are also helping kids be safe from bullying.”
“We’re delighted to have been chosen to benefit from the auction of these once in a lifetime items from Kobe Bryant.” said Lee. “Athletes set a powerful example when they speak out against bullying and we deeply appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in this auction for helping us to amplifying this message.”
Here are the items of Kobe Bryant memorabilia whose sale will benefit The BULLY Project:
LOT #15 – Kobe Bryant’s 2000 NBA All-Star Game Ring – Prior to this auction no Bryant ring has ever come up for public sale.
LOT #16 Kobe Bryant’s Lower Merion game-used maroon high school uniform (jersey & shorts) number 33. There has never been an authenticated Kobe Bryant game worn Lower Merion #33 road uniform offered for sale. A Letter of Authenticity signed and dated from Kobe’s mother Pam accompanies this impressive uniform set. MEARS has analyzed the uniform and awarded it a grade of A10.
LOT #17 Kobe Bryant’s Lower Merion game-used white high school uniform (jersey & shorts) number 33 – Similar markings and quality as the road maroon uniform, this homee white uniform also carries a perfect grade of A10 from MEARS.
LOT #18 — Kobe Bryant’s 1996 Magic’s Roundball Classic All-Star Medallion and Ribbon. The commemorative medal was awarded to Bryant after the game. The 2 3/4″ round and 1/8″ thick medal has “ANNUAL” and “1996 All Star” surrounding the “Magic’s Roundball Classic” logo and “Palace of Auburn Hills” in relief on the obverse. The medal is suspended from a red, white and blue neck ribbon.
Each of the items are accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity signed by Kobe Bryant’s mother, Pamela Bryant. The LOA’s state that the items are authentic and have been in her possession until being part of this auction. Goldin Auctions will also be issuing a LOA with each item guaranteeing its authenticity as well as its origin.
In addition to the above items, 16 additional items related to the Lakers star will be available during the auction. The additional items are not part of The BULLY Project charity initiative. They include: a Kobe Bryant 2000 Lakers NBA Championship Ring 14K-28 Diamonds (Laker Issued Player Ring Gifted by Kobe to his father Joe Bryant); a Kobe Bryant 2000 Lakers NBA Championship Ring 14K-24 Diamonds (Laker Issued Player ring gifted by Kobe to his mother Pam Bryant); a 2006-07 Lakers game-worn jersey; a 2001-02 Lakers game-worn uniform; a UCLA basketball signed by legendary coach John Wooden and personalized to Kobe Bryant; several rare prototype sneakers and other footwear; plus a selection of autographed items and other memorabilia.
The auction is open from June 17-July 19 at www.GoldinAuctions.com.
