During a recent Sotheby’s auction, a pair of sneakers worn and signed by the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan during Game Two of the 1998 NBA Finals, also known as The Last Dance, was sold for over $2.2 million (£1.8 million), setting a new record for one of the most expensive pairs of sneakers ever sold.
These sneakers have gained even more notoriety due to their appearance in the popular Netflix series of the same name, which chronicles Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls. Sotheby’s head of streetwear and modern collectibles, Brahm Wachter, expressed his satisfaction with the result, noting that Michael Jordan’s memorabilia continues to exceed all expectations.
The Victoriam collection at Sotheby’s, which features sports memorabilia from past and present athletes, included these sneakers. The collection is divided into two parts.
The Air Jordans broke the previous record of $1.8 million (£1.45 million) set by Kanye West’s Nike Air Yeezy 1s.
Sotheby’s has sold many valuable pieces of Michael Jordan’s memorabilia due to their rarity and high demand. For example, in September 2022, Jordan’s jersey from Game One of the 1998 NBA Finals sold for $10.1 million (£8.1 million), making it one of the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia.
One of the latest items sold was the black and red Air Jordan 13s, also known as Bred in the Air Jordan sneaker line. Jordan wore these sneakers while scoring 37 points in the Bulls’ 93-88 victory against the Utah Jazz. These sneakers were among the final Air Jordan releases during Jordan’s time with the Bulls.
Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, having won six NBA championships and five MVP awards during his illustrious career. His legendary status has made him a highly sought-after figure in the world of sports memorabilia, with his jerseys, shoes, and other items selling for record-breaking prices at auction.
The Air Jordan brand, which was created in collaboration with Nike, has also become a cultural icon, with its designs and branding influencing fashion, music, and sports worldwide. The Air Jordan 13s, in particular, are a highly coveted sneaker, and the “Bred” colorway worn by Jordan during The Last Dance has become an iconic symbol of his legacy.
In addition to his success on the court, Jordan’s entrepreneurial ventures, such as the Jordan brand and ownership of the Charlotte Hornets NBA team, have also contributed to his immense wealth and cultural impact.
Overall, Michael Jordan’s influence on basketball and popular culture has made him a timeless figure, and the sale of his memorabilia at record-breaking prices only further cements his status as an icon.
