Kobe Bryant’s “Achilles” sneakers sold for $660,000 at Sotheby’s Friday morning, passing the low end of the $600,000 to $800,000 estimate.
It’s the highest price ever paid for a pair of Bryant-worn sneakers.
The “Kobe 8” sneakers were worn when he tore his Achilles tendon and famously hit two foul shots after the injury.
Some time after the game, Panini Authentic acquired the pair and had Bryant apply his signature. They were then sold privately and had never hit public auction until Friday.
After the game, Bryant, frustrated by the injury, took to Facebook in a now-famous post detailing his feelings.
“One day, the beginning of a new career journey will commence. Today is NOT that day,” Bryant wrote.
'If you see me in a fight with a bear, prey for the bear.' I've always loved that quote. That's "mamba mentality" we don't quit, we don't cower, we don't run. We endure and conquer.”
Bryant's jersey from the same game sold for $1.22 million in June 2024.
Will Stern is a reporter and editor for cllct.