In a stunning turn of events, rookie NBA player Victor Wembanyama’s debut jersey has fetched an astounding $762,000 at a Sotheby’s auction. This unexpected price tag far surpassed the initial estimate of $80,000 to $120,000, making it one of the highest sums ever paid for an NBA rookie debut jersey. While the record for the highest-priced game-worn rookie jersey still belongs to Kobe Bryant, who sold his for $3.6 million in 2021, Wembanyama’s jersey has certainly made its mark in the history books.
The jersey in question, a white San Antonio Spurs jersey worn by the towering 7’4″ Wembanyama during a game against the Dallas Mavericks on October 25, garnered a remarkable 62 bids. The auction witnessed an intense flurry of activity in its final minutes, showcasing the immense demand for this piece of sports memorabilia.
What makes this sale even more impressive is the fact that Wembanyama is only 19 years old and in his rookie season. Despite his young age, he has already been making waves in the NBA, averaging an impressive 18.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. His exceptional performance on the court has undoubtedly contributed to the high value placed on his debut jersey.
This auction follows a previous high-profile sale of another Wembanyama jersey worn during his NBA Summer League debut, which fetched a remarkable $62,000. As the official game-worn jersey partner of the NBA, Sotheby’s has recently entered into a partnership with the league, amplifying its status as a hub for collecting basketball memorabilia. In addition to Wembanyama’s jerseys, nearly 60 other NBA jerseys were sold at this auction, resulting in a total revenue exceeding $1.2 million. Notably, this inaugural event attracted the attention of 176 bidders from 14 countries.
While Wembanyama’s debut jersey commanded an astounding price, other notable NBA players’ opening game jerseys sold for more modest amounts. LeBron James’ jersey sold for $50,820, showcasing the enduring appeal of one of the league’s greatest players. Damian Lillard’s Milwaukee Bucks jersey brought in $30,480, demonstrating the interest in this talented point guard. Jerseys worn by Giannis Antetokounmpo fetched $25,400, highlighting the love for the reigning NBA Finals MVP. Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic’s jersey, the reigning regular-season MVP, sold for $17,780, reinforcing his growing popularity as one of the league’s premier centers. Steph Curry’s jersey also garnered attention, reaching a final bid of $27,940, showcasing the ongoing reverence for the Golden State Warriors’ shooting maestro. Jayson Tatum’s jersey, on the other hand, sold for a still-respectable $8,890, highlighting the demand for this Boston Celtics forward.
In conclusion, Victor Wembanyama’s debut jersey has made history by fetching a staggering $762,000 at a Sotheby’s auction. This remarkable sale cements the French rookie’s burgeoning reputation in the NBA and solidifies the demand for his memorabilia. As basketball fans and collectors continue to recognize the immense talent and potential of young players like Wembanyama, the market for their game-worn jerseys and other items of significance is likely to flourish.
