NEW YORK — A collection of sneakers worn by Michael Jordan was sold for a record-breaking $8 million at a Sotheby's auction on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, this sale sets a new record for the highest amount paid for game-worn sneakers at an auction, surpassing the previous record of $2.2 million, also for a pair of Jordan's sneakers, sold last April.
The collection, known as the Dynasty Collection, features sneakers worn by the basketball icon during his NBA championship victories in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1998 with the Chicago Bulls. Sotheby's statement highlighted that the lot includes a set of signed 1/1 limited photographs by Bill Smith, capturing Jordan in moments of triumph following the NBA Finals in 1992, 1993, 1996, and 1998. In these photographs, Jordan is seen smiling and celebrating, donning just one sneaker from each pair. The other sneaker of each pair had been previously given to Tim Hallam, a longtime public relations executive for the Chicago Bulls.
At 60 years old, Michael Jordan not only holds the record for the highest-selling game-worn sneakers but also for the most expensive piece of game-worn sports memorabilia. His jersey from Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals fetched $10.1 million in September 2022. Jordan's illustrious career includes six NBA championships with the Bulls, six NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, and five league MVP titles over his 15 seasons in the NBA.
Regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time by the NBA History official website, Jordan's influence extends beyond the court. His sneakers have become cultural icons, and his net worth is estimated at $3 billion, as per Forbes' Real-Time Billionaires List.