The Gold Standard: Kobe Bryant Makes His Monumental Mark for Panini America

The incomparable Kobe Bryant made headlines earlier this week — as he has so many times before during his decorated career – by simply saying what he felt: That his Dream Team could defeat the 1992 Dream Team in a head-to-head matchup that would inevitably be “a tough one.”

Two days later, Bryant was in the Las Vegas hotel room of Panini Authentic’s Brian Bayne for a special private signing steeped in patriotic pageantry.

During yesterday’s session, an upbeat Bryant signed all of his cards for next week’s release of 2011-12 Gold Standard Basketball (inserted as redemptions that will be available immediately), including the first 24 with a “USA” inscription. In addition, Bryant autographed a stunning selection of items coming soon to Panini Authentic — eight pairs of his Nike London Zoom VIIs inscribed “USA,” 24 Molten FIBA basketballs that he inscribed “London 2012″ and a handful of USA jerseys.

When Bryant, a Panini America-exclusive athlete, and the rest of his teammates depart for London in the coming days, Bayne won’t be too far behind. Proving there’s nothing he won’t do for Panini Authentic, Bayne will be on hand to personally secure Bryant’s scarce game-worn memorabilia.

Stay tuned to The Knight’s Lance for more details. But until then, enjoy this exclusive sneak peek at Bryant’s patriotic penmanship — sure to be as headline-worthy as the man himself.