Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Game 3 Jersey Could Set Auction Record
Michael Jordan's jersey from Game 3 of the 1998 NBA Finals could set a new sales record for game-worn memorabilia this fall.
A game-worn jersey from Michael Jordan's Game 3 performance in the 1998 NBA Finals may set a new auction record this fall. Donned by Jordan, who scored 24 points and helped the Chicago Bulls secure a 2-1 series lead, the jersey played a crucial role in the team's ultimate championship victory. The jersey also holds historical significance as it was part of the "Last Dance" era, marking the peak of the Bulls' dynasty during the 1990s.
Joopiter's global head of sales, Caitlin Donovan, emphasized the emotional appeal of such a significant object, aiming for a record-breaking auction price. Donovan also highlighted the importance of connecting the story to fans who lived through that moment. Currently, Jordan's "Last Dance" jersey from Game 1 holds the record for game-worn memorabilia, selling for $10.1 million in 2022.
The absence of a league-wide game-worn tracking program in the NBA during Jordan's era led to teams often washing and re-wearing their jerseys, unlike today's athletes who wear new jerseys consistently. According to Barry Meisel of MeiGray, Jordan remains a rare relic compared to today's top players, as the NBA did not have the same practices for game-worn memorabilia.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.