Jordan Brand Gives Kobe Bryant Air Jordan Collection as Retirement Gift

As Kobe Bryant enters the stretch run of the final season of his 20-year career, the Jordan Brand has come up with an amazing way to honor the Los Angeles Lakers legend.

It's a fitting tribute for a player who has had the sort of career the 18-time All-Star has had.

During NBA All-Star Weekend on Friday night in Toronto, the Jordan Brand presented Bryant with his own collection of Air Jordans. Each Air Jordan ever made, from I through XXX, was included. The company even included the Lakers' purple and gold in the Air Jordan IIIs and Air Jordan VIIIs, shoes the Black Mamba wore during the 2002-03 season.

via Nike

via Nike

While Bryant received a white set as a retirement gift, the Jordan Brand created an alternate collection in black as well. The company is auctioning off the other shoes on eBay to raise money for charity.

For those interested, be aware the collection won't be cheap. The opening bid is $100,000. That's a steep price, but it is a one-of-a-kind collection—and the proceeds go to a good cause.

Update: Sunday, Feb. 14

The winning bid for the black Air Jordans collection was $240,100, according to eBay. At least the winner got free shipping.

--End of Update--

[Nike]