This is a key Kobe Bryant rookie card from one of the premium products of the 1996-97 season, the Flair Showcase Row 0 #31, graded PSA NM 7. Flair Showcase came in three tiers, labeled Row 2, Row 1 and Row 0. Row 0 was the hardest to pull and is the most prized among collectors. The tier and number are printed on the back as “Row 0, Seat 31, Section 1,” which carries the set’s arena-seating theme.

The front pairs a large close-up of the 18-year-old Bryant with a second image of him driving to the basket in the Lakers’ purple road uniform. Both images sit on Flair’s sparkling, textured finish, with his name in silver foil on a gold Lakers background. The back has a striking close-up portrait above a short note about his 21-point game against the Sacramento Kings on January 3. It also lists his stats through the 1997 All-Star Break.

This example has strong eye appeal for the grade. The color is rich and the glittery surface is clean, with only slight wear at the corners and edges. Row 0 rookies of Bryant are among the most sought-after cards from his first season and remain in steady demand. This one comes encapsulated by PSA and makes a great centerpiece for any collection of the Laker legend.