A pair of basketball shoes once worn by the legendary Michael Jordan fetched an astounding $2.2 million (£1.7 million) at a Sotheby’s auction, establishing a new record for the most expensive footwear ever sold.
The signed sneakers, which Sotheby’s had anticipated would sell for between $2 million and $4 million, rank among the costliest Jordan memorabilia ever auctioned.
A jersey donned by Jordan during the 1998 NBA Finals was sold for $10.1 million in 2022.
This recent sale cements Jordan’s status as the most valuable athlete in sports memorabilia auctions.
Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables, stated, “Today’s record-breaking outcome demonstrates that the Michael Jordan sports memorabilia market consistently surpasses and transcends all expectations.”
The previous record for Jordan shoes was $1.47 million, set by a pair of his Nike Air Ships auctioned in 2021.
The Air Jordan XIIIs, sold on Tuesday, were worn by Jordan during his final championship season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-98.
During Game 2 of the 1998 NBA Finals, Jordan wore the size-13 shoes and scored 37 points, leading the Bulls to a 93-88 win over the Utah Jazz.
The Bulls ultimately clinched the championship, chronicled in the 2020 documentary series “Last Dance,” focusing on Jordan’s final season with the team.
This championship marked Jordan’s sixth NBA title and his fifth NBA Most Valuable Player award.
Following the Game 2 triumph, according to Sotheby’s, Jordan gifted the shoes to a ball boy in the locker room as a token of appreciation for locating a misplaced jacket.
Sotheby’s stated that the “Bred” Air Jordans, a term derived from “black and red,” are the sole authenticated complete pair of sneakers Jordan wore in an NBA Finals game.
In 1984, during his rookie season with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan sported the inaugural Air Jordan shoe. The Air Jordan I was released to the public in 1985, and over 30 different models have been produced since then.
Throughout his career, Jordan garnered six NBA Finals titles, two Olympic Gold Medals, and many other achievements.
He is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished athletes in history.
The sale of these iconic sneakers reflects the growing interest in sports memorabilia, particularly items related to Michael Jordan. As one of history’s most recognizable and accomplished athletes, Jordan’s memorabilia holds significant value for collectors and enthusiasts.
These record-breaking sales highlight the enduring fascination with Jordan’s career and the general booming market for sports collectibles. Sports memorabilia has become a popular investment for collectors, with rare items often appreciating over time.
The Air Jordan brand, which began as a partnership between Nike and Michael Jordan, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, transcending the world of sports. The sneakers have become a symbol of style and status, with each new release generating excitement and anticipation among fans.
Beyond the world of sneakers, Michael Jordan’s impact can be felt across various industries, including sports, fashion, and entertainment. His majority ownership of the Charlotte Hornets, endorsements, and business ventures, such as the Jordan Brand, continue to generate revenue and solidify his legacy.
As the market for sports memorabilia continues to expand, it’s clear that the demand for Michael Jordan-related items will remain strong. These record-breaking sales are a testament to his enduring influence and lasting impact on the world of sports and beyond.
