Kobe Bryant was taken with the 13th overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft and traded from the Charlotte Hornets to the Los Angeles Lakers. He appeared in 71 games for Los Angeles in his rookie season. On January 28, 1997, he made his first career start in a game against the Dallas Mavericks in Texas. Bryant tallied 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in a 102-83 Lakers victory. 

Offered is the pair of Adidas EQT Top 10 shoes photomatched to Kobe's first career start on that January night. The size 13.5 sneakers show heavy use, with creasing and scuffing throughout. The soles and mudguards exhibit moderate tread wear. Both shoes have been signed by Bryant in bold black permanent marker in his early career style. The LOA from Sports Investors Authentication states that the company: "photo matched these shoes being worn by Kobe Bryant on January 28, 1997 — Bryant's first career NBA game as a starter. Kobe Was 18 years, 158 days old during this game — making him the youngest player ever to start in an NBA game." The autographs are also accompanied by full LOAs from PSA/DNA. An incredible pair of shoes from a historic moment in the career of one of the greatest players of all time.