Fans Selling Kobe Bryant Memorial Shirts From Lakers Tribute for Massive Price Should Be Ashamed
By Jackson Thompson
It was only a matter of time before greed started to taint the Kobe Bryant grieving period. Bryant memorial t-shirts are now selling for up to $695 on eBay.
Not even a week removed from the death of Bryant, his daughter and several others in a Los Angeles helicopter crash, internet "entrepreneurs" are looking to cash in on the widespread fondness for him and his legacy, in a grossly opportunistic way.
Memorial Kobe shirts from last night’s game are selling on eBay. The only way this is even remotely appropriate is if the proceeds from these sales go to benefit the families involved in Sunday’s crash pic.twitter.com/ripQi4kdir
— Marc Istook (@MarcIstook) February 1, 2020
The shirt prices listed by the eBay merchants exceed that of an official Kobe Bryant jersey from the NBA Store, which goes for around $300. It's a price range that is just as much of a shakedown as it is a disrespect.
Individuals and organizations around the world have made an effort to honor Bryant's legacy in tasteful ways. This includes the release of memorial videos, graphics and custom jerseys, but the practices of these dealers puts a stain on this global moment of tribute.
UPDATE:
— QuickTake by Bloomberg (@QuickTake) January 28, 2020
Nike tells @novy_williams its online store sold out of Kobe Bryant shoes and apparel in the 2 days after the NBA icon’s tragic death, contradicting a report that the company pulled the merchandise to thwart profiteers https://t.co/JF3zVnRhhq pic.twitter.com/jILfZ9Aebg
Plain and simple, those on eBay trying to charge absurd prices for Kobe gear shouldn't be rewarded. This is the last thing the Black Mamba would want.