The Staples Center has long been known as a Jekyll and Hyde of basketball arenas. One night, it is decked out in gold and purple for the Lakers. The next, it’s all black and silver for the Clippers. In the middle of all that rivalry and design coordination, is one famous locker: Kobe Bryant’s.
Since the 2018 locker room renovation however, Bryant’s locker has not been in its previous home. Now, it is up for auction at Sotheby’s. The famous piece of basketball history is estimated to sell for between $1 million and $1.5 million.
A maintenance worker saved the locker from demolition or donation, knowing immediately who used to use that space.
On its way to auction at Sotheby’s, the locker was acquired in a private collection by the owner of the nameplate that used to be affixed to the locker. So, those two pieces were reunited. The combination makes it all the more valuable.
“Kobe Bryant's locker at the Staples Center is more than just a piece of memorabilia; it's a sacred relic of his unparalleled journey,” Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of modern collectibles, said. “This locker was Kobe's sanctuary amidst triumphs and challenges, a witness to the highs and lows of a storied career. Every achievement and hardship left its mark within these walls. Its appearance now at auction symbolizes a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Kobe's legacy.”
Just as when Kobe played for the Lakers, they share their facilities with the Los Angeles Clippers. But recent locker room renovations certainly give each team the feeling of having their own, unique space. The Clipper’s locker room has a professional look, with dark-stained wooden locker fronts, personalized name plates and Clippers branding throughout. On the Laker’s side, where Bryant’s locker used to be, they also have branding throughout that could make anyone believe they are the only tenants of the Staples Center.
According to Lakers Nation, “A portion of the proceeds from this sale will go towards the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation, the official charity of the franchise. The foundation’s mission is to help underserved youth develop their potential by providing positive experiences and resources in education, health and wellness, and sports.”
Kobe’s locker will be on display at Sotheby’s New York gallery until July 30, right next to Michael Jordan’s shorts.
