In a stunning turn of events, Victor Wembanyama’s star continues to rise as his debut NBA jersey from the San Antonio Spurs’ first regular-season game sold for an astounding $762,000 at a Sotheby’s auction. The initial estimate of $80,000-$120,000 was quickly shattered as eager bidders fought for the towering rookie’s white jersey, ultimately placing it among the highest sums ever paid for a rookie debut jersey in NBA history. The current record is held by a Kobe Bryant jersey, which sold for $3.6 million in 2021.
The impressive selling price reflects the immense interest in the 19-year-old French prodigy. Standing at an impressive 7 feet 4 inches, Wembanyama’s impact on the court has been undeniable. With remarkable season averages of 18.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, he has already caught the attention of fans and collectors alike.
This remarkable auction follows another notable sale, where a jersey worn by Wembanyama 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 momentous auction, featuring the sale of nearly 60 other coveted jerseys. In total, the auction generated over $1.2 million in revenue, drawing the interest of 176 bidders from 14 countries.
While Wembanyama’s debut jersey stole the show, other NBA players’ season opener jerseys garnered more modest but still notable amounts. LeBron James’ jersey sold for $50,820, showcasing the enduring popularity of the legendary player. Damian Lillard’s Milwaukee Bucks jersey sold for $30,480, highlighting the demand for jerseys featuring top players from rival teams. Jerseys worn by Giannis Antetokounmpo fetched $25,400, further emphasizing the appeal of the reigning NBA champion’s memorabilia. The MVP recognition of Nikola Jokic reflected in the bidding, as his jersey sold for $17,780. Steph Curry’s jersey, a favorite among basketball enthusiasts, was sold for $27,940, while Jayson Tatum’s jersey closed the sales at $8,890.
The extraordinary success of the Wembanyama auction solidifies his position as a rising star in the NBA and his appeal to collectors and fans worldwide. As his skills continue to develop and his reputation grows, it is clear that Wembanyama’s jerseys will remain highly sought-after pieces of NBA memorabilia. The staggering sale price of his debut jersey is a testament to the excitement surrounding his career and the immense value placed on items associated with this young phenom.
In conclusion, Victor Wembanyama’s debut NBA jersey shattered records by selling for an astounding $762,000 at a Sotheby’s auction. This sale reinforces his skyrocketing reputation and places him among the highest-paid NBA rookie debut jerseys in history. With his remarkable talent on the court and growing fan base, Wembanyama’s jerseys continue to command premium prices and capture the attention of collectors worldwide.