This Kobe and Shaq-Signed Ball Just Shattered Auction Records—What’s It Worth Now?

The game-used ball from Game 6 of the 2000 NBA Finals, signed by basketball legends Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and all the other players on the 1999-00 NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers, has fetched an astonishing $508,000 at auction through Sotheby's. This sale has shattered the previous record for a championship-clinching ball, which stood at $107,950 from the Oklahoma City Thunder's 2025 NBA title.

This particular game, held on June 19, 2000, not only marked the Lakers' victory over the Indiana Pacers with a score of 116-111, but also served as a significant milestone in NBA history for multiple reasons. It signified the first championship for both Bryant and O'Neal, two icons of the sport who would later achieve historic careers—Bryant would go on to win five championships while O'Neal claimed four.

The victory was particularly poignant as it ended a 12-year championship drought for the Lakers, their last title having come in 1988. This victory was the catalyst for a new dynasty in Los Angeles, leading to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. Remarkably, this run represents the last three-peat in league history, underscoring its significance within the annals of the sport.

In a game filled with dramatic turns, the Lakers trailed by five points entering the fourth quarter but rallied to secure the hard-fought win. Key performances came from both stars: O'Neal delivered an impressive 41 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks, while Bryant contributed 26 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Their combined efforts not only clinched the title but also solidified their legacies as two of the greatest players to ever grace the court.

The record-setting auction sale of the ball is reflective of the enduring fascination and investment in sports memorabilia, particularly when it involves such significant players and events. This trend has been fueled by the increasing popularity of auctions, with collectors eager to own a piece of history, especially those associated with legendary franchises like the Lakers. As the sports memorabilia market continues to grow, auctions like this one are likely to attract immense interest, drawing in fans and collectors alike who are keen on owning artifacts that symbolize pivotal moments in sports history.

In conclusion, the sale of the game-used ball from the 2000 NBA Finals not only highlights a significant moment in basketball history but also serves as a reminder of the cultural and financial value attributed to sports memorabilia. As interest in the history of the game deepens, one can only anticipate what the future holds for similar items that capture the essence of legendary moments in sports.