Sneakerheads and basketball fans alike are gearing up for an iconic pair of sneakers worn by Michael Jordan himself, currently up for auction at Sotheby’s. These are the Nike sneakers worn by MJ during Game 2 of the 1998 NBA Finals, which happened to be his final season with the Chicago Bulls. As expected, these kicks have already generated a ton of buzz, with fans and collectors alike vying for the chance to own a piece of basketball history.
Considered by many to be the most famous and recognizable basketball sneakers of all time, the shoes are estimated to fetch between €2 million and €4 million at auction. However, the bidding war has already begun, and Sotheby’s has revealed that they have received an offer of $1.8 million (€1.65m). This initial offer is poised to break the all-time record for a pair of sneakers sold at auction.
It’s not surprising that these sneakers are highly sought after. Michael Jordan is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his impact on the sport is immeasurable. In addition, the 1998 NBA Finals was a pivotal moment in Jordan’s career, as it was his final season with the Chicago Bulls. This game was also one of Jordan’s most memorable, as he played through flu-like symptoms and scored 38 points, leading the Bulls to victory.
Owning a piece of basketball history is undoubtedly a draw for collectors and fans. However, the auction of these sneakers also highlights the growing trend of sneaker culture and the increasing value placed on rare and iconic sneakers. In recent years, sneakers have become a highly collectible item, with limited edition releases selling out within minutes and resale prices skyrocketing.
As the bidding war for Michael Jordan’s iconic sneakers continues, it remains to be seen who will ultimately come out on top. However, one thing is for sure: these sneakers are not just shoes, but a symbol of basketball history and a cultural phenomenon.