It is anticipated that the auction of Michael Jordan's NBA Finals sneakers from 1998 will break records

A pair of red Air Jordan 13s that Jordan wore during the iconic "Last Shot" game-winning play in the 1998 NBA Finals

Michael Jordan in a file photo. (Image: Twitter)
By Haryash | Mar 16, 2023 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Sports fans, collectors, and investors are all very excited about the upcoming auction
of Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals sneakers. The shoes in question are a set of red Air Jordan 13s that Jordan wore during the renowned “Last Shot” game-winning play in the 1998 NBA Finals, which was his final campaign with the Chicago Bulls.

These sneakers are noteworthy not only for the historical event they were worn, but also because they are unique. Jordan has mismatched size 13 and 13.5 shoes, with a size 13 on his right foot and a size 13.5 on his left. This was because of a slight size discrepancy between his feet, which he made up for by donning shoes of various sizes. As a result, these shoes are a special part of basketball history.

It is reasonable to be excited about the upcoming auction of these sneakers. Michael Jordan’s game-used footwear has previously sold for record prices, with one pair from the 1985 NBA season fetching $560,000 at auction. It is anticipated that the final price will exceed that sum given the historical importance of the 1998 NBA Finals and the rarity of these sneakers.

"Last Dance" Michael Jordan 1998 shoes
(credits: @nypost)
“Last Dance” Michael Jordan 1998 shoes (credits: @nypost)

With
their distinctive appearance, the red Air Jordan 13s have become recognizable in the world of sneakers. They have a red “Jumpman” holographic logo on the heel and a red holographic “Jumpman” logo on the black leather and suede upper. Michael Jordan’s passion for fast cars served as the design inspiration for the Air Jordan 13, which features an outsole that resembles a panther’s paw.

Beyond their aesthetic value, these shoes stand for an iconic moment in basketball history. These shoes were worn by Michael Jordan during one of the most famous plays in sporting history, the “Last Shot” in the 1998 NBA Finals. Owning a part of that history is a chance that cannot be missed for both collectors and fans.

To sum up, there is a lot of anticipation and excitement surrounding the auction of Michael Jordan’s red Air Jordan 13s from the 1998 NBA Finals. These unique sneakers not only commemorate an event in basketball history that will live in the memories of sports fans everywhere, but they also are a one-of-a-kind item. The final cost is yet to be determined, but one thing is for sure: these sneakers have far more value than their outward financial value. They represent excellence, tenacity, and Michael Jordan’s enduring legacy.

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With earnings amounting to $3.3 billion, Michael Jordan is the highest paid athlete of all time: NBA

Although
Michael Jordan is regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, his influence on the sports world extends far beyond his accomplishments on the court. Jordan is the highest-paid athlete in history, according to Forbes’ list of the 100 highest-paid athletes of all time, with an astounding $3.03 billion in career earnings.

Jordan’s income comes from a variety of sources, including his NBA salary, endorsement deals, and ownership interests in the Charlotte Hornets. It has been especially profitable for him to work with Nike because of their collaboration on the enduring Air Jordan shoe line. The Jordan brand alone is thought to bring in over $3 billion annually.

Jordan’s position as the highest-paid athlete in history is evidence of his enduring influence and cultural significance. He continues to be a legendary figure in sports and beyond, and his impact on basketball and popular culture is still felt today. Generations of athletes and businesspeople have been motivated by his success both on and off the field, and his life is a shining example of the value of a strong work ethic, commitment, and perseverance.

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