Basketball legend Michael Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 NBA finals have set a new auction record, fetching a staggering £1.8 million ($2.2 million). The Air Jordan 13s, worn by Jordan during the second game of the finals in his last year with the Chicago Bulls, have become the most expensive pair of trainers ever sold. The famous black and red footwear, known as “Bred” in the Air Jordans range, were on Jordan’s feet as he scored 37 points in the Bulls’ 93-88 victory over Utah Jazz.
The Last Dance and Soaring Demand for MJ Memorabilia
The Inspiration Behind the Hit Netflix Series
The 1998 NBA finals have often been referred to as “The Last Dance” and inspired the hit Netflix series of the same name. The Air Jordan 13s from that iconic game were among the final public releases of an Air Jordan sneaker during Jordan’s illustrious career with the Bulls.
Record-Breaking Sale at Sotheby’s
The sneakers smashed auction records at Sotheby’s on Tuesday, with Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of streetwear and modern collectables, stating:
“Today’s record-breaking result further proves that the demand for Michael Jordan sports memorabilia continues to outperform and transcend all expectations. Sotheby’s is extremely proud to hold the world record for most valuable game-worn sports memorabilia at auction and the most valuable sneakers ever sold, both of which – to no surprise – are directly tied to the global icon, Michael Jordan.”
Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s
A Look at the Air Jordan Phenomenon
Air Jordans: More Than Just Michael Jordan’s Sneakers
The Air Jordan brand, created by Nike and endorsed by Michael Jordan himself, revolutionised the sneaker industry and became an integral part of basketball culture. Some lesser-known facts about the Air Jordan range include:
- Renowned Nike designer Tinker Hatfield being responsible for many iconic Air Jordan designs
- The original Air Jordan 1 “Bred” being banned by the NBA in 1985 for violating the league’s uniform policy
- The design inspiration for some Air Jordan models coming from non-sports items, such as the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane and the African Black Panther
Celebrity Collectors and Record-Breaking Auctions
Michael Jordan’s memorabilia is highly valued and sought after at auction, with many celebrities known to be avid collectors of Air Jordans foot fashion. Recently, Sotheby’s also sold Jordan’s jersey, which he wore at the first game of the 1998 NBA finals, for a whopping £8.1 million ($10.1 million) in September 2022. This made it the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia ever sold at auction.
The Lasting Legacy of Michael Jordan’s Sneakers The Air Jordans
The Air Jordan brand continues to thrive, with new models, limited editions, and collaborations ensuring the sneakers remain a sought-after commodity for collectors, athletes, and fans alike. The recent record-breaking auction sale of Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA finals sneakers serves as a testament to the enduring impact of both the man and the brand on the world of sport and popular culture.