Jordan shoes become most expensive sold

Michael Jordan’s basketball boots sell for record price
Photo: Sotheby’s

A pair of trainers once worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan has sold for $US2.2m ($NZ3.55m) at auction, becoming the priciest shoes ever sold.

The signed sneakers – which Sotheby’s had estimated would fetch $US2m to $US4m – are among the most expensive Jordan items auctioned.

A jersey he wore at the 1998 NBA Finals sold in 2022 for $US10.1m ($NZ 16.3m).

The latest sale seals Jordan’s position as the most valuable athlete at auctions for sportswear memorabilia.

“Today’s record-breaking result further proves that the demand for Michael Jordan sports memorabilia continues to outperform and transcend all expectations,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables.

The previous record for Jordan shoes was $US1.47m for a pair of his Nike Air Ships auctioned in 2021.

Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls during the 1998 NBA Finals game versus the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Bulls won the series 4-2 to take the title.
Photo: Photosport

The Air Jordan XIIIs sold were worn by the basketball star during his last championship season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-98.

Jordan had the shoes on when he scored 37 points in Game 2 of the 1998 NBA Finals series, carrying the Bulls to a 93-88 victory over the Utah Jazz.

The Bulls went on to win the championship, a story told in the 2020 documentary series “Last Dance” about the megastar’s last season with the team.

It was Jordan’s sixth NBA championship and the fifth time he’d be named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player.

-BBC