A historic moment in sneaker collecting was witnessed as a pair of Air Jordan 13s, famously worn by basketball legend and African-American billionaire Michael Jordan during his iconic “Last Dance” season, sold for a record-breaking $2.2 million at Sotheby’s — one of the world’s largest brokers of fine and decorative art, jewelry, and collectibles.
This particular pair of sneakers carries immense historical significance, as it was the last pair of Air Jordan XIII Breds (abbreviated for “black and red”) that Michael ever wore in an NBA game, making them an exclusive one-of-a-kind item.
According to Sotheby’s release, the sneakers had an estimated value of $2 million to $4 million and an “irrevocable bid,” indicating that a buyer had already been secured in advance.
The sale was highly anticipated among collectors and enthusiasts and now holds the title for the most expensive sneakers ever sold.
Sotheby’s has been at the forefront of record-breaking sneaker sales, having brokered both the previous private and public auction records.
The former was set in 2021 for a pair of Nike Air Yeezy 1 sneakers worn by rapper Kanye West, which sold for a remarkable $1.8 million.
Sotheby’s had already set the public auction record earlier that year with a pair of Michael Jordan regular season game-worn Nike Air Ships, which sold for $1.5 million.
What you should know about the world’s most expensive sneakers
On June 5, 1998, basketball fans around the world watched as Michael Jordan wore a pair of Air Jordan XIII Breds sneakers during Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
The game, which was part of Jordan’s iconic “Last Dance” season, was a must-win contest for the Chicago Bulls after losing Game 1 to the Utah Jazz.
Jordan rose to the occasion yet again, scoring 37 points over 40 minutes of play and leading the Bulls to a 93-88 victory.
The remarkable sneakers played an important role in that win and are now considered the most expensive sneakers in the world.
Following the game, Jordan gifted the signed sneakers to a ball-boy who had helped him recover a lost jacket.
The sneakers feature large silver signatures on each toe box and remain in immaculate condition.
The unique pair of sneakers holds significant historical value as it is the only complete pair worn by Michael Jordan in any of his six NBA Finals series.
