Michael Jordan’s legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats is set to make waves once again as his iconic home white Chicago Bulls shorts from the 1998 NBA Finals are hitting the auction block at SCP Auctions this fall. Worn during Games 3, 4, and 5 at the United Center in Chicago, these shorts carry the weight of Jordan’s final season with the Bulls, culminating in his sixth NBA championship.
The 1998 NBA Finals marked the end of an era for Jordan with the Bulls, solidifying his legendary status in the sport (despite a brief return with the Wizards later on). Facing off against the Utah Jazz, the Bulls emerged victorious with a 4-2 series win, securing their sixth title since 1991. Jordan’s pivotal role in Games 3 and 4, where he scored 24 and 34 points respectively, fueled the Bulls to victory before facing a tough loss in Game 5. Ultimately, the Bulls clinched the title in Game 6 in Utah, making these shorts the final home trunks ever worn by Jordan as a Chicago Bull.
The authenticity of the shorts has been confirmed through photo-matching by both MeiGray and Sports Investors, linking them to the historic games in Chicago. With bidding set to open on November 6 and run through November 23, these shorts are anticipated to break records, with a pre-auction estimate of $500,000. This would establish a new benchmark for game-worn basketball shorts, a testament to the enduring popularity of Jordan’s memorabilia.
Jordan’s game-worn items have consistently fetched top dollar in the collector’s market. Most notably, in 2022, a jersey worn by Jordan during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals fetched $10 million at Sotheby’s, setting a record for basketball memorabilia. Just this year, a set of six sneakers worn by Jordan during the same Finals sold for an impressive $8 million at auction.
As a significant piece of Jordan’s history with the Bulls, these shorts are sure to attract immense interest from avid collectors and fans alike. They represent a tangible connection to the unparalleled career of “His Airness” and his enduring impact on the sport of basketball. Get ready to bid on a piece of sports history and own a part of Jordan’s legendary legacy.
