Michael Jordan, a name synonymous with greatness in the basketball world, is once again making headlines as his legendary 1998 NBA Finals shorts are set to go under the hammer at SCP Auctions. These iconic home white Chicago Bulls shorts, worn by Jordan during Games 3, 4, and 5 of the Finals, are not just a piece of clothing but a tangible symbol of a historic era in the NBA.
The 1998 NBA Finals marked the culmination of Jordan’s illustrious career with the Bulls, culminating in his sixth NBA championship. The Bulls emerged victorious against the Utah Jazz in a thrilling 4-2 series, with Jordan’s stellar performance throughout the Finals solidifying his status as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. These home white shorts, worn during pivotal games at the United Center in Chicago, carry the weight of that monumental achievement, making them a coveted item for basketball enthusiasts and collectors.
Photo-matched to Games 3, 4, and 5 by both MeiGray and Sports Investors, these shorts bear the marks of Jordan’s on-court excellence with point totals of 24, 34, and 28 in each respective game. Despite a loss in Game 5, the Bulls rallied to claim the championship in Game 6 in Utah, making these shorts the last home trunks ever worn by Jordan as a Chicago Bull, adding to their historical significance.
Scheduled to be part of SCP’s Fall Premier Auction, bidding for these treasured shorts will commence on November 6 and conclude on November 23. With a pre-auction estimate of $500,000, experts predict that these shorts could shatter existing records for game-worn basketball items, creating a buzz in the sports memorabilia world.
Michael Jordan’s game-worn memorabilia has consistently commanded high prices at auctions, with previous sales setting remarkable benchmarks. Notably, a game-worn jersey from Game 1 of the same Finals fetched a staggering $10 million at Sotheby’s in 2022, indicating the enduring appeal and value of items associated with the basketball icon. Moreover, a collection of sneakers worn by Jordan during the 1998 NBA Finals sold for $8 million earlier this year, showcasing the enduring legacy of “His Airness.”
As collectors and fans prepare to vie for this piece of basketball history, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the auction of Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals shorts continue to grow. This auction not only offers an opportunity to own a tangible piece of Jordan’s legendary career but also adds another chapter to the enduring legacy of a player who transcended the sport and left an indelible mark on basketball history.
