The place usually represented Kobe Bryant’s accomplishments at Lower Merion High School. The place recently became a source of frustration and sadness for his alma mater.
Several pieces of Bryant’s memorabilia were stolen on Sunday night from what the school called “The Kobe Showcase.” Those items included a framed replica of his No. 33 jersey, the Aces’ 1996 state championship trophy and net, programs from the state and district title games, a proclamation from the Pennsylvania State House honoring the 1996 team as well as several pairs of signed Nike sneakers by the Lakers’ star.
Lower Merion police have started looking into surveillance footage inside and outside the school for possible leads. Lower Merion officals also notified Bryant and his representatives of the incident.
“It’s pretty heartbreaking,” Lower Merion spokesman Doug Young said in a phone interview. “Mostly these are items of nostalgia; it’s not so much the monetary value. they represent an exciting and memorable time for all of us.”
In a joint email written to parents of Lower Merion High School students, principal Sean Hughes and athletics director Don Walsh wrote they were “saddened” and “angered” about the incident before expressing relief that “no one was harmed.”
“Material items can be replaced and we will make every effort to restore and even enhance the contents of the case with the help of alumni and friends,” the letter said. “And even if we cannot replace all the items, the moments that produced them are still very much alive in our memories and honored through the ongoing traditions of Aces Nation.”
Bryant led Lower Merion to its first state title in 53 years and broke Wilt Chamberlain’s Southeastern Pennsylvania high school scoring record (2,883 to 2,252). Bryant, who donated $500,000 to his alma mater in 2010 to refurbish its gym, has largely credited his time in Lower Merion over the years for shaping his game as a young player.
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