The Los Angeles Lakers recently finished their worst season in franchise history in Kobe Bryant’s last year in the league, but losing has not deteriorated the franchises allure in merchandise sales. Bryant retired after 20 seasons with the Lakers and it is an end of an era for the Lakers and their fans, but that did not stop people from purchasing his jersey at a high rate.
Despite Kobe being at the end of his career, he still finished third in jersey sales behind reigning back-to-back MVP Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors and Finals MVP LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to Kurt Helin of NBC Sports.
Kobe’s presence in the top-three of jersey sales is a testament to his legendary career and vast following from fans around the world. As perhaps the most recognizable basketball figure for the majority of his career, he has become a global icon during his time with the Lakers.
In addition to Kobe Bryant’s jersey sales, the Lakers remained in the top-three among overall merchandise sales despite having the second-worst record in the NBA. The two teams ahead of the Lakers in merchandise sales are again the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The two teams who played in the NBA Finals possessed the top spot, while the Lakers claimed the third best merchandise sales even after their worst season in franchise history. The Lakers have the most loyal fans in the world who are sticking with their team through the rebuilding process, and this is evident by the returns of jersey and merchandise sales.