A jersey worn by NBA legend Michael Jordan during the 1996-1997 season has been sold for approximately 84.24 million pesos at a Sotheby's auction.
This iconic piece was utilized in at least 17 games that season, including a notable match where rookie Allen Iverson passed to Jordan.
With this sale, the jersey ranks as the fourth most expensive in NBA history. It follows Jordan's famous 'Last Dance' jersey, which sold for about 182.82 million pesos; a signed Kobe Bryant jersey that fetched over 104.40 million pesos; and a jersey worn by Wilt Chamberlain during the 1972 NBA Finals, which sold for 88.20 million pesos. All these transactions were also conducted through Sotheby's.
The red jersey is the only one authenticated by MeiGray from Jordan's first five championship seasons. According to Sotheby's, 'the jersey has remained in private hands since it was acquired by the team.'
This item was part of the 'Colossal - The Ultimate Jordan Collection' auction, which featured other notable lots, including a jersey worn and signed during the first game of the Eastern Conference Playoffs in 1998, sold for approximately 15.12 million pesos.
Other items included a signed jersey and shoes from the University of North Carolina (2.38 million pesos), a jersey worn during the 1988-89 season (19.44 million pesos), and a U.S. flag signed by the 'Dream Team' from the 1992 Summer Olympics (32.40 million pesos), which was used during the medal ceremony.
Overall, the auction dedicated to Jordan raised approximately 153.30 million pesos, with the 'Dream Team' flag generating significant interest, receiving up to 45 bids, likely due to its historical significance.