An US auction house says it is confident of moving forward with the sale of Kobe Bryant’s mementos which are the subject of a dispute between the National Basketball Association star and his mother
The New Jersey-based Goldin Auctions said it is hopeful the planned June auction will proceed after they paid a substantial fee to Pamela Bryant who assured them through “certificates of authenticity” she is the rightful owner of the Bryant collectables.
“Goldin Auctions, LLC, is taking necessary and appropriate legal action in US District Court to allow the business to move forward with its planned auction, including the items that are the subject of this action,” Goldin lawyer Jeff Cohen said Monday.
“The items at issue were legally obtained by Goldin Auctions after being approached by Pamela Bryant, who provided certificates of authenticity and attested in a sworn affidavit to their lawful ownership.
“Goldin Auctions has already issued a substantial monetary advance for these items and is only interested in proceeding with its legal right to conduct its business without further interference.”
Los Angeles Lakers superstar Bryant, 34, is not happy that his mother wants to auction off items from his childhood basketball days, including trophies, jerseys and championship rings. The items are expected to sell for $1.5 million next month through the West Berlin, New Jersey company.
Last week, the five-time NBA champion Bryant sent a cease-and-desist letter to Goldin, ordering the firm to halt the sale and return the collectables to him.
