Kobe Bryant retired and the 18,997 fans in attendance got a letter on their seat. Most of them were opened, this one is still sealed.

Earlier this year Kobe died making this a desirable piece of memorabilia

Bryant, a five-time NBA champion who has spent his entire 20-season career with the Lakers, said it was his decision to orchestrate the letter giveaway as a token of appreciation for his fans.

“I really can’t thank the fans enough, man,” Bryant said Sunday. “They’ve been such a motivator for me, and such a catalyst for everything that I’ve accomplished. I have so much respect and love for them.”

Here’s what Bryant wrote in the letter:

When we first met I was just a kid.

Some of you took me in. Some of you didn’t.

But all of you helped me become the player and man in front of you today.

You gave me confidence to put my anger to good use.

Your doubt gave me determination to prove you wrong.

You witnessed my fears morph into strengths.

Your rejection taught my courage.

Whether you view me as a hero or villain, please know I poured every emotion, every bit of passion and my entire self into being a Laker.

What you’ve done for me is far greater than anything I’ve done for you.

I knew that each minute of each game that I wore purple and gold.

I honor it as I play today and for the rest of this season.

My love for this city, this team and for each of you will never fade.

Thank you for this incredible journey.

The photos are not of my item I’m happy to do a video call with serious prospective buyers