Sotheby's Is Auctioning the Most Valuable Kobe Bryant Game-worn Jersey

An iconic piece of NBA memorabilia is hitting the auction block at Sotheby's next month. Los Angeles Lakers and Kobe Bryant fans alike will get a chance to own one of the most valuable items in the history of the sport to ever go on sale.

Sotheby's is auctioning a very special game-worn Kobe Bryant jersey. The jersey was worn 25 times during his 2007-2008 MVP season and is expected to go between $5 million and $7 million USD in the online auction. In a statement to CNBC, Brahm Wachter, Sotheby's head of streetwear and modern collectibles discussed the magnitude of owning the jersey, "To have this jersey from that iconic moment is not only really special, but it has also served as this point of inspiration all over the world of Kobe in this jersey."

This particular jersey is the subject to one of Bryant's most iconic moments. In a photo now-famous and synonymous with the Black Mamba, Bryant wore the jersey during Game 2 of the Western Conference series against the Denver Nuggets. The photo was taken on April 23, 2008 with just 5 minutes and 22 seconds remaining, where Bryant sank a three-pointer to secure a 14-point lead for the Lakers. The image from that moment sees Bryant pulling on his jersey in excitement, now known to the world as an moment that commemorates his MVP season.

In the same auction, Sotheby's is also selling LeBron James' 2013 NBA Finals Miami Heat jersey, expected to reach $3 million to $5 million USD.

Bidding for the game-work Kobe Bryant jersey begins online starting on February 2 and lasts until February 9.

In other sports news, Naomi Osaka has announced a one-year hiatus from Tennis.