Kobe Bryant's Sneakers from His Famed 'Achilles Game' Go to Auction for an Estimated $800,000

Mar. 15, 2025

The sneakers, per Wachter’s statement, “encapsulate the remarkable fortitude that made him one of the greatest to ever play the game,” and are a symbol of Bryant’s “unrelenting drive to make himself better every day.”

Bryant’s legendary performance in the 2013 game came against current NBA starStephen Curryand theGolden State Warriors. The late Lakers star even made two free throws while standing on one leg at the end of the game, becoming one of many great moments in his storied career.

Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers gets injured at Staples Center on April 12, 2013 in Los Angeles, California.Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty

Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty

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Fans of Bryant’s may remember theFacebook posthe penned after the iconic “Achilles Game” in 2013.

On his official account, Bryant wrote said all of his “training and sacrifice just flew out the window with one step that I’ve done millions of times,” after the injury.

“The frustration is unbearable,” he continued. “The anger is rage. Why the hell did this happen?!? Makes no damn sense. Now I’m supposed to come back from this and be the same player Or better at 35?!? How in the world am I supposed to do that??”

Kobe Bryant in his famed “Achilles Game” on April 12, 2013 in Los Angeles.Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times/Getty

Bryant went on to reflect on the possibility that “maybe this is how my books ends” before telling his followers it “feels good to vent” his frustration.

“Because After ALL the venting, a real perspective sets in,” Bryant wrote. “There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever.”

The Lakers legend also shared his favorite quote in that 2013 Facebook post. “‘If you see me in a fight with a bear, pray for the bear.’ I’ve always loved that quote. That’s ‘mamba mentality’ we don’t quit, we don’t cower, we don’t run. We endure and conquer.”

Bryant underwent Achilles surgery and, though he was often injury-ridden, he was able to play two more seasons before retiring in 2016.

source: people.com