Topps had already introduced the Refractor to the basketball card industry in its Finest brand in 1993, but by giving its debut Topps Chrome set the rainbow-reflective finish in 1996, the company immortalized an iconic rookie class on a chromium brand that remained an annual staple for more than a decade. As arguably the most popular card in Kobe Bryant's rookie catalog, collectors appreciate this Refractor for its place in trading card history and the moment in Kobe’s career it represents.
Bryant’s NBA career began when he checked into the second game of the 1996-97 season. Bryant debuted against the Timberwolves on November 3. In 6:22 of action, he grabbed a rebound, blocked a shot, and missed his only field-goal attempt. A photographer captured Kobe in action during that game, and Topps used that photo on this '96 RC. Bryant aggressively drives around Cherokee Parks – Minnesota’s 6-foot-11 center – proving he would not shy away from anyone, even at 18 years old.
The certification number on this card has been checked against the third-party grader's online database and is active as of 08/01/2024.
