Kobe Bryant's 1998 All-Star appearance marked a significant moment in NBA history, as it was the first time he faced off against Michael Jordan on a national stage. At just 19 years old, Kobe became the youngest All-Star in history, a title he still holds today.

Kobe's role in the game was emblematic of his future as one of the NBA's greats. He spent much of the game matched up against Jordan, showcasing his scoring ability, flashy style, and confidence. The moment foreshadowed the fierce rivalry between Kobe and Jordan. 

The 1998 All-Star game represents a pivotal intersection of eras—Jordan’s dominance and the rise of a young player who would go on to reshape the NBA in his own image. It symbolized both the end of an era and the beginning of a new one, with Kobe taking the first steps toward becoming one of the league’s most iconic players.

Presented in this lot is an extremely rare 1998 NBA All-Star program which is highlighted by a large dated Kobe Bryant autograph from when he was just nineteen years old. "2/8/98/" is included along with Kobe's signature and number, denoting the same date as the game was played. This was Kobe's first of eighteen total All-Star Game appearances during his career. At the time, he was voted as the youngest ever All-Star starter, going up against the East led by Michael Jordan in his 'Last Dance' season. 

The program included three number 8's written by Kobe (the day, year, and his player number), which would go on to win three rings while wearing number 8. This is why he later chose to wear number 24 as his new number (8x3=24).

The magazine has been authenticated by PSA/DNA.