With its three 10 subgrades, this Pristine BGS 10 1996-97 Topps Chrome Kobe Bryant Refractor rookie represents a glorious example of arguably the most popular card in Bryant's rookie catalog. Topps had already introduced the Refractor to the basketball card industry in its Finest brand in 1993-94, but by giving its debut Topps Chrome set the rainbow-reflective finish parallel three years later, the company immortalized an iconic rookie class in a chromium brand that remained an annual staple for more than a decade.
Kobe Bryant, the 13th overall pick from the draft, is unsurprisingly the headliner of the rookie class. Collectors appreciate this Refractor for its place in trading card history and the moment in Kobe’s career it represents. A photographer captured Kobe in action during his first NBA game. When Topps transferred that image to its inaugural Topps Chrome set, the company unknowingly created one of the most iconic rookie cards in the basketball card industry, one that remains recognizable nearly three decades later.
This Pristine 10 is a pop 15 in the BGS registry with just two Black Label copies ranking higher.
The certification number on this card has been checked against the third-party grader's online database and is active as of 06/04/2026.
This item was flash inserted on Jun 2, 2026.
