The recent auction of a unique trading card featuring basketball legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant has sparked a heated debate among NBA fans. The card, a 2007-08 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autographed piece, fetched a staggering $5.917 million, making it the most expensive basketball card ever sold at public auction. While this sale marks a historic milestone in the world of sports memorabilia, it has also drawn significant criticism from collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The card showcases the signatures of both Jordan and Bryant alongside game-worn patches, a combination that typically excites basketball collectors. However, the reaction to its record-breaking sale has been far from celebratory. Many fans argue that the high price reflects the mechanics of auction bidding rather than the card’s actual worth. This sentiment is particularly pronounced in light of recent trends in Michael Jordan memorabilia, which have seen fluctuations in value.
For instance, a 1986 rookie jacket belonging to Jordan, once valued at $10 million, sold for only $4.2 million earlier in 2025. Additionally, the market is flooded with trading cards from the so-called “junk wax era,” which has diluted the perceived rarity and value of many items. The card in question is graded as a PSA 6, leading to further criticism regarding its quality. Fans have expressed their disbelief that a card of this caliber didn’t receive a higher gem mint rating, which is often viewed as a benchmark for collectible value.
A significant point of contention among fans is the buyer’s premium—a fee added to the winning bid that can inflate the final sale price. In this case, the winning bid of $4.85 million included a premium of $1.067 million, leading many to question the true value of the card. One fan expressed frustration on social media, stating, “Lol $1M in buyer’s premium. That’s an absolute joke.” Another chimed in, “As a PSA 6?!!” and a third added, “It’s not even gem mint 10. There has to be a better card out there.” Critics argue that this hefty fee makes the record sale appear more like a marketing achievement than a genuine reflection of rarity or quality.
In addition to the controversy surrounding the card sale, the NBA community is buzzing with other news. Scottie Pippen, a legendary player in his own right, recently shared insights about his relationship with Kobe Bryant. Pippen, known for his versatility and intelligence on the court, revealed that he admired Bryant’s dedication to improving his game. After his 2007 stint with the Houston Rockets, Pippen considered joining the Los Angeles Lakers, where he could have teamed up with Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. However, he ultimately ended up with the Portland Trail Blazers, missing out on the opportunity to play alongside the future Hall of Famer.
“The best teammate I ever played with is Michael Jordan,” Pippen stated. “There is no doubt about it, and I am going to say that all day, every day. The one teammate I wish I could have played with and I didn’t play with was Kobe Bryant.” Pippen went on to share how Bryant would reach out to him after his retirement, asking for advice on various aspects of the game. “He was just trying to improve his craft,” Pippen said, highlighting Bryant’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
As the NBA gears up for the upcoming season, fans are eager to see how these stories unfold. The league is filled with anticipation as teams prepare for training camps and the excitement builds around the potential for new rivalries and standout performances. With stars like Joel Embiid facing health concerns and the ever-evolving landscape of player transactions, there’s no shortage of drama in the NBA.
In conclusion, while the sale of the Michael Jordan-Kobe Bryant card may have set a new record, the ensuing debate over its value reflects broader trends in the sports memorabilia market. As collectors and fans continue to navigate this complex landscape, the love for the game and its legends remains unwavering. The NBA community is ready for another thrilling season, filled with unforgettable moments and stories that will shape the future of basketball.