A pair of Nike Air Ship trainers worn by Michael Jordan during his rookie year (1984-1985) for the Chicago Bulls have sold for $71,554.
They were among the highlights of a sports memorabilia sale at SCP Auctions in California.
 Jordan now earns around $60m a year from his sponsorship deal with Nike |
Jordan gave them to an LA Lakers ball boy following a 1984 game, in which Jordan scored 20 points.
SCP Auctions comments: "During this time, Jordan was breaking in his Air Jordan I's primarily in practice and warm-ups. Not until mid-late December of 1984 would Michael wear Air Jordans exclusively per his Nike contract.
"The shoes come with a detailed letter of authenticity from Lakers' ball boy, Khalid Ali, whose tenure has been verified by the team. He was gifted the shoes directly from Jordan in the visiting locker room after the game and witnessed Jordan sign them in person.
"With such a small window, it is almost unfathomable that a Jordan game-worn pair like these would ever surface, and we have Khalid Ali to thank."
In 2013 the sneakers worn by Jordan in his legendary "flu game" sold for $104,765 at Grey Flannel Auctions.
We have a strong selection of sports memorabilia available, click here to take a look.
Please sign up to our free newsletter to receive exciting news about sports memorabilia auctions.
