NBA Playoff Bound Kobe Bryant Teams with Upper Deck to Launch

Limited-Edition All-Star Vinyl Action Figure On April 24

Kobe Figure Based on ‘Stylized Realism’ Found in Comic-Book Art

CARLSBAD, CA – With his effortless ability to loft a last minute game winning jump shot or a quick step around a defender to throw down a monster dunk Kobe Bryant possesses a super human knack for dominating a game. Much like his super power on court skill, Upper Deck Authenticated (UDA) has perfectly captured Kobe Bryant in the company’s new All-Star Vinyl action figure. 

Upper Deck will launch two Bryant themed superhero-inspired vinyl action figures – in road purple jerseys and yellow home versions on April 24 at 8:24 am PT – each will be extremely limited.  Only 1,500 home and 500 away versions have been produced and will be offered online www.allstarvinyl.com (MSRP $49.95) and at www.kb24.com – while supplies last.

“Every game Kobe reveals another side to his game, one night he single-handedly outscores his opposition, another night his pass leads to the winning score.  Bryant performs at another level than his peers,” said Upper Deck sports figure product manager Dave Sanders.  “Kobe Bryant’s play epitomizes the style of our All-Star Vinyl line.  He plays like a superhero and is bigger than life.  To ensure we keep Kobe ’s action figure ‘real’ with Urban Vinyl collectors we have produced a comic book based character with a limited production run.  The Bryan action figures are arguably the most-limited NBA licensed product around.”

More on Upper Deck’s All-Star Vinyl Action Figurines

At 11 inches and produced in the underground style of urban vinyl, Upper Deck’s All-Star Vinyl action figures are  a  combination of art and realism not typically found in sports licensed products.  Adds Sanders, “in this medium, our designers are able to have fun by adding or playing up on player attributes and subtleties that give life to these athletes, highlight their distinct features, playing style – design characteristics that make them highly unique in comparison to more traditional based sports figures. Keeping with the comic book theme the high end packaging and artwork was created by well-known comic artist Chris Brunner.” 

To offer more details on the All-Star Vinyls, Upper Deck has set up dedicated web site with a blog written by Sanders  - allstarvinyl.com.  It will also give consumers a first look at upcoming sports action figure launches throughout the year, giving insight into the athletes to be featured, as well as the artist and sculptor behind the piece.