Kobe Bryant Figure Guide: Value, Types and How to Buy the Right One
A Kobe Bryant figure is more than a shelf piece. For many fans it is a small reminder of the Mamba Mentality, the 81 point night, and two retired Lakers numbers. But the market is crowded. Sizes differ, quality varies, and fakes exist.
This guide shows you the main types, what shapes value, and how to buy with confidence.
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Key Takeaways
- A Kobe Bryant figure can be a 12 inch articulated collectible, a vinyl Funko Pop, a vintage Starting Lineup piece, or a statue.
- Value depends on maker, edition, condition, and packaging, not just the player’s fame.
- Always verify licensing and compare sold listings, not asking prices.
- Buy the figure you will enjoy displaying. Treat any resale gain as a bonus.
Top 3 Kobe Bryant Figures
- 1998 Kobe Bryant Starting lineup figure New unopened
- McFarlane’s Sports Picks Series 3, Kobe Bryant 2003 Purple Jersey by McFarlane Toys
- Kobe Bryant with card hoop stars #9 in series 2003 hallmark ornament
1. 1998 Kobe Bryant Starting lineup figure New unopened
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The 1998 Kobe Bryant Starting Lineup figure is a new, unopened collectible made by Kenner and sold under the Hasbro brand.
It shows Kobe Bryant in the yellow Los Angeles Lakers uniform.
This Kobe Bryant figure is part of the Starting Lineup series and carries the 1998 edition label.
Buyers looking for a Kobe Bryant figure for sale will find it listed at $60.80, which keeps it under $200.
It has a 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 46 customers.
Amazon also shows an instant $50 off offer for approved Amazon Visa users, who would pay $10.80 upon approval.
It is described as a rare collectible in a plastic build, made for indoor tabletop display.
Image Credit: amazon.com
Key Features
- 1998 Kenner Starting Lineup action figure of Kobe Bryant
- Los Angeles Lakers yellow uniform, a classic Kobe Bryant jersey look
- New and unopened condition
- NBA sports theme with a modern style
- Plastic material with a single piece included
- Item size of 6.69 x 5.91 x 1.69 inches and weight of 2.88 ounces
- Manufacturer recommended age of 4 to 14 years
- Free returns and a 30 day return guarantee from Amazon
- Suitable for occasions like New Year’s and parties
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| New and unopened 1998 edition | Other sellers may offer a lower price |
| Authentic Kenner Starting Lineup design | Lower price offers may not include free Prime shipping |
| Yellow Lakers uniform for a classic NBA look | Ranks #394,073 in Toys & Games overall |
| Priced at $60.80, well under $200 | |
| Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46 customers | |
| Free returns and a 30 day return guarantee |
My Opinion
I like this Kobe Bryant figure because it comes new and unopened from the 1998 Starting Lineup series.
The yellow Los Angeles Lakers uniform gives it a timeless NBA look that fits any sports collection.
I also feel the price of $60.80 is fair for a rare collectible, especially with the Amazon Visa offer that cuts the cost to $10.80 upon approval.
The 4.5 star rating from 46 customers adds to my confidence in it.
Free returns and the 30 day return guarantee make it feel like a safe pick for any fan.
2. McFarlane’s Sports Picks Series 3, Kobe Bryant 2003 Purple Jersey by McFarlane Toys
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The McFarlane’s Sports Picks Series 3 Kobe Bryant 2003 Purple Jersey is an action figure made by McFarlane Toys.
It shows Kobe Bryant in the purple Los Angeles Lakers jersey with the number 8.
This Kobe Bryant figure McFarlane collectors look for belongs to the McFarlane’s SportsPicks line and is listed as Series 3.
It is priced at $74.90, which keeps it under $200 for anyone comparing the price of a Kobe Bryant figure.
Amazon also shows an instant $50 off offer for approved Amazon Visa users, who would pay $24.90 upon approval.
It has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from 12 customers.
The figure is made of plastic with a matte finish and is meant for indoor tabletop display and collecting.
Image Credit: amazon.com
Key Features
- McFarlane’s Sports Picks Series 3 Kobe Bryant action figure from McFarlane Toys
- Purple Los Angeles Lakers jersey with the number 8
- Highly detailed articulation
- Collectible series with a specific moment depiction
- Plastic material with a matte finish
- Item size of 8.82 x 8.58 x 3.5 inches and weight of 10.4 ounces
- Recommended for display and collecting
- Designed for indoor tabletop use
- Free returns and a 30 day return guarantee from Amazon
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly detailed articulation | Only 12 customer reviews so far |
| Purple Lakers jersey with number 8 | Ranks #223,071 in Sports & Outdoors overall |
| Priced at $74.90, well under $200 | Priced higher than some other figures |
| Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars | |
| Part of a collectible series | |
| Matte finish with a display ready design | |
| 30 day return guarantee |
My Opinion
I like this Kobe Bryant figure because it shows him in the purple Lakers jersey with the number 8.
The highly detailed articulation makes it stand out as a collectible piece for any sports shelf.
I also feel the price of $74.90 is fair, especially with the Amazon Visa offer that lowers the cost to $24.90 upon approval.
The 4.8 star rating from 12 customers adds to my confidence in it.
It is made for display and collecting, and the 30 day return guarantee makes it feel like a safe pick for any fan.
3. Kobe Bryant with card hoop stars #9 in series 2003 hallmark ornament
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The 2003 Kobe Bryant Hoop Stars ornament, listed as number 9 in the series, is a collectible ornament made by Hallmark.
It is a stunning addition to any Christmas tree and comes with a card as part of the Hoop Stars Basketball line.
This Kobe Bryant figure style ornament is priced at $69.88, which keeps it under $200 for anyone checking the price of a Kobe Bryant figure.
Amazon also shows a $50 Amazon Gift Card offer upon approval for Amazon Visa.
It has a 3.4 out of 5 star rating from 10 customers.
The ornament is listed in mint condition, and the photos shown are stock photos.
It stands about 5 inches tall and is described as a way to bring joy to your home this holiday season.
Image Credit: amazon.com
Key Features
- 2003 Hallmark Hoop Stars ornament of Kobe Bryant, number 9 in the series
- Comes with a card as part of the Hoop Stars Basketball collection
- Mint condition ornament
- Approximate size of 5.0 inches tall, 1.3 inches long and 1.4 inches wide
- Sports theme with a modern style and a Christmas occasion
- Multicolor design with a novelty shape
- Manufacturer part number QX8237 / 08237
- Free returns from Amazon
- Hallmark has been crafting ornaments since 1973
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mint condition ornament | Rated 3.4 out of 5 stars |
| Part of the Hoop Stars Basketball series | Only 10 customer reviews so far |
| Includes a card with the ornament | Images are stock photos |
| Made by Hallmark, crafting ornaments since 1973 | Box condition needs to be checked in the condition description |
| Free returns | |
| Fits a Christmas tree or a collection |
My Opinion
I like this Kobe Bryant ornament because it comes from the Hallmark Hoop Stars Basketball series.
The 2003 edition with a card makes it feel special for a collector.
It is listed in mint condition, which matters to me when choosing a collectible.
I also like that Hallmark has been crafting ornaments since 1973, so the brand carries real history.
The free returns and the $50 Amazon Gift Card offer upon approval for Amazon Visa make it feel like a safe pick for any fan.
What Is a Kobe Bryant Figure?
A Kobe Bryant figure is a licensed collectible that portrays the late Lakers guard in miniature form. Formats include articulated action figures, vinyl figures, bobbleheads, and resin statues. Most show him in a Lakers jersey, usually gold or purple, with number 8 or 24.
Kobe Bryant played 20 seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers, won five NBA championships, and earned the 2008 NBA MVP award. The Lakers retired both of his numbers, 8 and 24, in 2017. He passed away on January 26, 2020, and demand for his memorabilia has stayed strong since then.
Types of Kobe Bryant Figures
1/6 scale articulated figures (12 inch)
This is the premium tier. At 1/6 scale, a figure stands about 12 inches tall and usually has a detailed headsculpt, cloth or fabric style clothing, and posable joints. Enterbay is the best known maker in this category through its NBA Collection Real Masterpiece line. Retailers have also listed duo packs with both purple and gold jerseys in a re-edition. These suit collectors who value realism and display quality.
Vinyl figures such as Funko Pop
Funko Pop figures are stylized with oversized heads and simple paint. They are affordable, easy to find, and popular as gifts. They are less about realism and more about fun and nostalgia.
Vintage Starting Lineup figures
Kenner’s Starting Lineup line produced small sports figures with trading cards in the 1990s, including pieces from Kobe’s early Lakers years. Collectors of vintage sports toys look for these. Condition and original packaging matter a lot here.
Statues and resin pieces
Statues freeze a single moment, like a shot or a celebration. They are usually less poseable but often more dramatic on a shelf. Check whether a piece is officially licensed before paying a premium.
Bobbleheads and other novelty items
These are common promotional and gift items. They are usually the most affordable and the least likely to hold long term value unless they are a limited or event item.
Comparison Table: Which Type Fits You?
| Type | Typical Size | Detail Level | Best For | Value Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/6 scale (Enterbay style) | About 12 inches | Very high | Serious display collectors | Moderate to strong for limited editions |
| Funko Pop | About 3.75 inches | Stylized | Gifts, budget buyers | Usually modest |
| Vintage Starting Lineup | Small | Basic | Vintage sports toy fans | Depends heavily on condition |
| Statues | Varies | High | Display focused fans | Varies by edition |
| Bobbleheads | Small | Low | Casual fans | Usually low |
What Drives the Value of a Kobe Bryant Figure?
Value comes from a mix of maker, rarity, condition, and demand. A famous name helps, but it does not guarantee a high price. A sealed, limited edition from a respected maker will usually outperform a loose, mass produced piece.
The main factors are:
- Maker and licensing. Officially licensed pieces from established makers are trusted by buyers.
- Edition and rarity. Limited runs and early releases tend to be sought after. Re-editions can cool prices for the original.
- Condition. Sealed and mint boxes command more than opened or loose figures.
- Packaging. Original boxes, inserts, and accessories matter, especially for 1/6 scale figures.
- Jersey and era. Some buyers prefer number 8 pieces, others number 24, and some want a particular jersey color.
- Market timing. Interest often rises around anniversaries and major tributes.
A note on numbers: there is no reliable public price index for Kobe Bryant figures, and prices vary widely by edition and condition. Rather than quote figures that may be outdated, check recent sold listings on eBay and past results from auction houses before you buy or sell.
Condition guide
| Condition | What It Means | Effect on Value |
|---|---|---|
| Sealed | Factory sealed box | Highest |
| Open box, complete | All parts and accessories included | Strong |
| Loose, complete | No box, all accessories | Moderate |
| Loose, incomplete | Missing parts | Lowest |
How to Spot a Fake Kobe Bryant Figure
Start with the seller and the packaging. Counterfeits often show blurry printing, misspelled text, missing licensing marks, or a price that looks too good to be true.
Use this checklist:
- Look for official licensing marks and the maker’s branding on the box.
- Compare photos with the maker’s official product page.
- Check paint lines, stitching, and headsculpt accuracy.
- Ask the seller for clear photos of the box, base, and any serial or model information.
- Be cautious with new sellers, stock photos only, and vague descriptions.
- Buy through platforms with buyer protection.
If you are unsure, ask the maker or a collector community before paying.
Where to Buy a Kobe Bryant Figure
Buy from authorized retailers first, then from reputable marketplaces.
- Specialty collectible stores often carry 1/6 scale figures and re-editions.
- Amazon offers many Kobe Bryant figures. Check that the seller is reputable and read recent reviews.
- Etsy has handmade and custom pieces. These can be creative but are not always official licensed items.
- eBay is useful for vintage and sold out items. Study sold listings and seller feedback.
Is a Kobe Bryant Figure a Good Investment?
It can hold value, but it is not guaranteed. Collectibles depend on demand, and demand can shift. Limited editions from strong makers have the best track record, while mass market items rarely appreciate much. Buy what you love, keep the packaging, and treat any profit as a bonus.
How to Display and Care for Your Figure
Keep figures away from direct sunlight, which fades paint and jersey fabric. Avoid heat and damp. Use a closed display case to limit dust. For 1/6 scale figures, use a proper stand rather than balancing on the feet, and avoid forcing joints. Store boxes flat and dry if you plan to keep them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying premium prices without checking sold listings
- Throwing away boxes and inserts
- Buying from unverified sellers
- Confusing scale sizes and expecting a 12 inch figure from a small listing
- Assuming every re-edition is as scarce as the original
Expert Tips
- Decide your display space and budget before browsing.
- Start with one strong piece instead of many cheap ones.
- Keep receipts and proof of purchase.
- Follow official maker announcements for re-editions and new releases.
Next Steps
- Pick the type that fits your space and budget.
- Read sold listings for the exact figure.
- Verify the seller and licensing.
- Buy, photograph the figure on arrival, and store the box safely.
You May Also Like to Read:
- Kobe Bryant Basketball Rookie Cards: The Complete Value & Collector’s Guide
- Kobe Bryant Action Figure: A Complete Value and Collector’s Guide
FAQs
What is the best Kobe Bryant figure?
For detail and realism, 1/6 scale figures such as Enterbay’s NBA Collection pieces are the top choice for display collectors. For budget and gifts, a Funko Pop is easier.
How much is a Kobe Bryant figure worth?
It depends on maker, edition, and condition. Sealed limited editions usually sell for more than loose mass market pieces. Check recent sold listings for current prices.
Are Kobe Bryant figures worth collecting?
Many fans find them worthwhile for sentimental and display reasons. Financial return is not guaranteed.
What is a 1/6 scale figure?
It is a figure built at one sixth of real size, which usually means about 12 inches tall.
Who makes Kobe Bryant figures?
Makers include Enterbay for 1/6 scale pieces, Funko for vinyl figures, and Kenner for vintage Starting Lineup items. Other companies release statues and novelty items.
How can I tell if a Kobe Bryant figure is real?
Check licensing marks, packaging quality, paint accuracy, and seller reputation, and compare against official product photos.
Is Enterbay’s Kobe figure worth the price?
For collectors who value articulation and realism, many consider it worth it. If you want something simple to display, a cheaper option may be enough.
Which jersey is more popular, 8 or 24?
It is a matter of taste. Some collectors want both, and duo packs exist for that reason.
Do sealed figures cost more than opened ones?
Usually yes, because condition and completeness matter to collectors.
Where can I buy a Kobe Bryant figure safely?
Authorized retailers first, then reputable marketplaces with buyer protection.
Should I keep the box?
Yes. Original packaging supports both value and safe storage.
Are Etsy Kobe Bryant figures official?
Not always. Many are custom or fan made, so confirm what you are buying.
Do Kobe Bryant figures increase in value after re-releases?
Re-releases can soften prices for earlier editions, so check availability first.
