Michael Jordan’s sneakers from 1998 NBA finals become most expensive trainers ever sold | US News

Basketball icon Michael Jordan’s sneakers from the 1998 NBA finals have fetched more than $2.2m (£1.8m) at auction – making them the most expensive pair of trainers ever sold.

The Air Jordan 13s were worn by Jordan for the second game of the finals during his last year with the Chicago Bulls – often referred to as The Last Dance and the inspiration behind the hit Netflix series of the same name.

The black and red footwear, or Bred as it’s known in the Air Jordans range, were worn when Jordan scored 37 points in the Bulls’ 93-88 victory over Utah Jazz.

The trainers were among the final public releases of an Air Jordan sneaker during the basketball player’s career with the Bulls.

The fancy footwear exceeded auction records after the sale at Sotheby’s on Tuesday.

“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.

“Sotheby’s is extremely proud to hold the world record for most valuable game-worn sports memorabilia at auction and the most valuable sneakers ever sold, both of which – to no surprise – are directly tied to the global icon, Michael Jordan.”

The sneakers formed part of Sotheby’s Victoriam collection, which is a two-part curated sports collection showcasing memorabilia from past and present athletes.

The Air Jordans beat the previous record of $1.8m (£1.45 million) held by a pair of Kanye West’s Nike Air Yeezy 1s.

Jordan’s memorabilia is highly valued and sought after at auction as Sotheby’s also sold his jersey, which he wore at the first game of the 1998 NBA finals, for $10.1m (£8.1m) in September 2022 – making it the most expensive game-worn sports memorabilia ever sold at auction.