The AEG Merchandise division of sports and entertainment company AEG earlier this week reported its third largest day of sales in Staples Center history during an event marking the jersey retirement of NBA basketball legend Kobe Bryant.
The 39-year-old retired from the game in 2016 having spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers, who play at Staples Center. Bryant this week had both his No.8 and No.24 jerseys retired by the Lakers.
Coincidentally, the total revenue generated by merchandise sales at Staples Center and affiliated stores throughout Monday was $824,000 (£617,000/€695,000).
AEG’s Team LA Store at Staples Center sold more than $600,000 with an additional $147,000 in online sales. The New Era D Lab at the adjacent L.A. Live development sold nearly $40,000 in specially designed New Era caps and merchandise, while the Lakers Team Shop, which is owned and operated by AEG, saw more than $20,000 in sales.
Almost 10,000 fans turned up at L.A. Live throughout the day to attend ‘Kobeland’, a free amusement park-style street fair, ahead of the Lakers’ game against the Golden State Warriors.
Lee Zeidman, president of Staples Center and L.A. Live, said: “Having witnessed Kobe Bryant’s entire Lakers career, it was no surprise how many fans would want to acquire a piece of memorabilia to celebrate and remember one of the most remarkable careers in NBA history.
“Kobe’s impact on the NBA, Los Angeles Lakers and fans everywhere may never be duplicated and it has certainly been our privilege to share so many great moments with him and his fans including last night’s celebration.”
AEG’s vice-president of merchandise, Sean Ryan, added: “Through our understanding of Kobe Bryant’s influence on the Lakers organisation, the City of Los Angeles and fans around the world, AEG teamed up with New Era, Nike, Kobe Inc. and Highland Mint to provide fans with high quality and collectible merchandise for this momentous occasion.
“Monday’s day-long tribute and overall phenomenal sales of the specially created items truly speak to the iconic legacy of Kobe Bryant.”
Image: Keith Allison
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