In the world of sports memorabilia, where every item tells a story of greatness, a recent listing on Sotheby’s has got people buzzing. A rare piece linked to the Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan is up for grabs for anyone who’d like to own a part of history. What is this item, and why is it worth less than another famous piece of NBA history? As we explore this intriguing mystery, we’ll uncover the legacies of two basketball giants and what truly determines the value of their memorabilia.

Michael Jordan’s final career game in the 2002-2003 NBA season, where he played for the Washington Wizards, is a significant chapter in NBA history. The game against the 76ers saw Jordan donning a pair of iconic purple and black shorts with the Wizards’ logo. These shorts are more than just fabric; they symbolize the end of an era, a farewell to a player who redefined basketball. So, how much are these legendary shorts worth? Currently, they’re fetching $14,000, with 35 bids on the table. That’s right—$14,000 for a pair of shorts! But then again, we’re talking about Michael Jordan.

In his final season, Jordan also played against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly anticipated event on March 28, 2003. In a game that witnessed the showdown between the master and the apprentice, Kobe Bryant delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring 55 points, including 42 in the first half. Key moments included Bryant’s scoring explosion, Jordan’s classic fadeaway jumpers, and intense fourth-quarter drama. In the final moments, Jordan received a standing ovation, as the Lakers emerged victorious, beating the Wizards 108-94.

Speaking of memorabilia, Kobe Bryant’s locker from the Los Angeles Lakers is a piece steeped in his legacy. Valued at over $1 million, this locker represents the heart and soul of Bryant’s career—a space where he prepared and reflected. In contrast to Bryant’s locker, Jordan’s Washington Wizards shorts have not reached the financial standpoint of some of his other memorabilia.

‘His Airness’ has had some of his other memorabilia fetch impressive amounts of money such as his sneakers, which were sold at an auction for a whopping $8 million. The six Air Jordan shoes — one apiece from the last games of the 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1998 championship series, dubbed “Dynasty Collection.”

Michael Jordan’s Legacy that fetched millions

Beyond the iconic purple and black Wizards shorts and the jaw-dropping $8 million sneakers, numerous other items related to Michael Jordan have garnered significant attention and value. Take, for instance, the jersey Jordan wore during the legendary “Flu Game” in the 1997 NBA Finals. This piece fetched $3.4 million at auction.

Sneakers, however, hold a special place in the pantheon of Jordan memorabilia. Another auction highlight is the sale of a 1984 Nike Air Ship, worn during Jordan’s rookie season. This sneaker sold for a whopping $1.47 million, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a game-worn sneaker at the time.

The public interest in Michael Jordan’s iconic shorts and Kobe Bryant’s locker shows the deep admiration for these basketball giants. While Jordan’s shorts from his final career game at Madison Square Garden are currently valued at $14,000, his sneakers and other memorabilia have commanded millions, reflecting his profound impact on the sport. Which piece of sports history would you add to your collection?

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us in the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.