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Debate

Is paying millions for a Jordan jersey justified, or is it just hype-driven madness?

It’s no secret that game-worn NBA jerseys are a huge draw for collectors, with fans dropping millions for a piece of sports history. And when it comes to Michael Jordan, the stakes get even higher. Just recently, one of his jerseys sold for a staggering $4.68 million—a number that doesn’t seem all that shocking when you consider another Jordan jersey once fetched a record-breaking $10.1 million. Yet, former NBA player Lou Williams has an opinion on the matter, and he’s not buying the hype—or the price tag.

Over on Run It Back’s official X account, a video captured Williams breaking down his take on the sale with the panel. When asked about that $4.68 million jersey, he didn’t hold back, saying, “Well, I’m not buying it. Listen, I think you can for a million dollars, probably for a half a million dollars.” But, Williams has a better alternative for the price he names.

“You probably can run into Michael Jordan somewhere and convince somebody to get him to sign that jersey for you right there on the spot.” So while Williams may not open his wallet for such a large sum over a jersey, he understands the significance. Hence he also states, “These years were the Golden Era. If you can get a piece of memorabilia from that time, I say go for it.”

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That specific jersey wasn’t just any Bulls jersey; it was a game-worn piece from the Chicago Bulls’ iconic 1996-97 season. Jordan wore it in at least 17 games, including the famous matchup where rookie Allen Iverson crossed him up. With MeiGray Authentication as the only verified red jersey from Jordan’s first five championship seasons, it’s no wonder it’s the fourth-most expensive NBA jersey ever sold.

 

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According to Sotheby’s, “The jersey has remained in private hands since its sale from the team.” This wasn’t the only rare item on offer, either. The “Ultimate Jordan Collection” auction included other historical pieces, such as a jersey and shorts set from the 1988-89 season and even a “Dream Team” American flag signed by Jordan. But still, the most expensive of all, came 2 years ago.

What’s your perspective on:

Is paying millions for a Jordan jersey justified, or is it just hype-driven madness?

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MJ’s Bulls jersey sells for record $10.1 million

In 2022, Michael Jordan’s iconic 1998 Chicago Bulls jersey shattered records, selling for an incredible $10.1 million at a New York auction. This legendary piece of sports history now holds the title of the most expensive game-worn memorabilia ever sold — fitting for the man many consider the greatest basketball player of all time.

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Interestingly, the sale of MJ’s jersey has surpassed even Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” jersey, which went for $9.28 million. Maradona’s shirt held the record for a brief moment, but Jordan’s legacy proved stronger.

In fact, MJ’s jersey sits atop an exclusive list of high-value sports memorabilia. And just after that in the NBA, there is Kobe Bryant’s signed jersey from his 2007-08 MVP season, which sold for $5.8 million, followed by Wilt Chamberlain’s 1972 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $4.9 million. All three of these iconic pieces auctioned by Sotheby’s, marking an era where sports legends continue to leave their mark far beyond the court.

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