Kobe sneakers from torn Achilles game sell for $660,000

Kobe Bryant, a legendary basketball player known for his incredible skills and competitive spirit, played for the Los Angeles Lakers. In a memorable game on April 12, 2013, he suffered a serious injury to his Achilles tendon while competing against the Golden State Warriors. Despite the pain, Kobe demonstrated remarkable determination by continuing to play and successfully making two crucial free throws. This moment has become a symbol of what fans refer to as the 'Mamba Mentality,' which embodies resilience and a never-give-up attitude. Recently, the sneakers he wore during that game, the Nike Kobe 8 Elite, were sold at auction for an astonishing $660,000. This sale highlights the lasting impact Kobe has had on the sport and his fans. The auction house, Sotheby's, emphasized that there is no other moment in Kobe's career that better represents his spirit than 'The Achilles Game. ' Tragically, Kobe Bryant passed away in a helicopter crash in January 2020, along with his daughter Gianna and seven other individuals. This heartbreaking event left a profound impact on fans and the basketball community worldwide. At the time of his death, Kobe was only 41 years old. The auction for his sneakers was highly anticipated, with estimates suggesting they would sell for between $600,000 and $800,000. The game itself began with a challenging start for Kobe, who was 34 years old at the time. Early in the second half, he hyperextended his knee, which made it difficult for him to move. Then, with just three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, he fell again, injuring his left heel. Reflecting on the injury, Kobe stated, 'As soon as I made the move, I knew it. It feels like the shock absorbers in the back of your foot are just gone. ' Despite the injury, he managed to return to the court and make those two free throws, solidifying this moment as one of his most iconic performances. After the free throws, the Lakers called a foul to stop the game, allowing Kobe to receive medical attention. He finished the game with an impressive 34 points, leading the Lakers to a narrow victory over the Warriors, with a final score of 118-116. Since Kobe's untimely passing, numerous items associated with him have fetched high prices at auctions. For instance, his jersey from the same game sold for $1. 2 million in June 2024. Additionally, a jersey he wore during his MVP season from 2007 to 2008 sold for over $5. 8 million in 2023, making it the second-most expensive basketball jersey ever sold. The legacy of Kobe Bryant continues to resonate with fans, and many gather to pay tribute to him and his daughter Gianna, often visiting murals dedicated to them in places like downtown Los Angeles.