In a stunning turn of events, Victor Wembanyama’s NBA debut jersey has shattered all expectations by selling for a mind-boggling $762,000 at a prestigious Sotheby’s auction. The initial estimate of $80,000-$120,000 was quickly rendered insignificant as the bids for the San Antonio Spurs’ white jersey reached unprecedented heights. This remarkable sum now ranks among the highest ever paid for an NBA rookie’s debut jersey, although it falls short of the record set by Kobe Bryant’s jersey in 2021, which sold for $3.6 million.
The jersey, worn by Wembanyama during the San Antonio Spurs’ game against the Dallas Mavericks on October 25, witnessed a fierce bidding war with a total of 62 bids. The auction’s final minutes saw a flurry of activity, driving the price up to astronomical heights. Just 19 years old, Wembanyama has already made his mark in the NBA with impressive statistics, including an average of 18.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game.
This extraordinary sale follows another notable auction where Wembanyama’s jersey, worn during his NBA Summer League debut, fetched an impressive $62,000. Sotheby’s recent partnership with the NBA as the official game-worn jersey partner began with this auction, featuring the sale of nearly 60 other jerseys and a total revenue exceeding $1.2 million. The inaugural event attracted an impressive 176 bidders from 14 different countries.
While Wembanyama’s debut jersey stole the spotlight with its record-breaking price, jerseys worn by other prominent NBA players during their season openers fetched more modest amounts. LeBron James’ jersey sold for $50,820, while Damian Lillard’s Milwaukee Bucks jersey brought in $30,480. Jerseys worn by Giannis Antetokounmpo were sold for $25,400, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic’s for $17,780, Steph Curry’s for $27,940, and Jayson Tatum’s for $8,890.
In conclusion, Victor Wembanyama’s NBA debut jersey has not only solidified his skyrocketing reputation but has also set a new record with its staggering price of $762,000. The demand for game-worn jerseys continues to soar, as collectors and fans eagerly aspire to own a piece of basketball history. As the NBA and Sotheby’s embark on their partnership, we can expect more exhilarating auctions and the potential for even more record-breaking sales in the future.
