Heritage Auctions is creating waves in the sports memorabilia world with the unveiling of a coveted item – Shaquille O’Neal’s complete Los Angeles Lakers uniform from the 1996-97 NBA season. This particular ensemble holds unparalleled significance as it adorned O’Neal during Kobe Bryant’s first NBA appearance on November 3, 1996, marking the inception of one of basketball’s most legendary partnerships.
Part of the exclusive “Treasures from Planet Hollywood” auction, this uniform is a standout amidst over 1,600 distinctive items up for grabs, varying from movie props to iconic attire once housed in Planet Hollywood establishments globally.
After his highly publicized move from the Orlando Magic to the Lakers with a lucrative seven-year contract valued at $121 million, O’Neal emphasized his passion for the sport over financial gains, a sentiment mirrored in his endorsements with sponsors Pepsi and Reebok.
Tailored to fit the imposing 7’1″ frame of O’Neal, the jersey boasts a size 56, while the shorts come in at size 50. Authenticated and photo-matched to not only Bryant’s debut game but also to at least five other matches in the same season, showcasing O’Neal’s prowess on the court.
During his time with the Lakers, the team secured three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002, with O’Neal leading the charge as Finals MVP for each victory. This uniform bears witness to the genesis of their triumph, displaying visible signs of wear from intense on-court battles, including frayed threads on the digits, originally sourced directly from the Lakers organization.
The fervor surrounding this monumental sports relic has been palpable, with bids swiftly approaching the $100,000 mark, inclusive of the buyer’s premium. The auction is slated to culminate in a live finale on Saturday, promising collectors a rare opportunity to possess a tangible fragment of Lakers and NBA history.
