A fresh-to-the hobby pair of game-worn Air Jordan 1 shoes is set to hit the auction block at Grey Flannel, and bidding could reach the mid six figures.
The dual-signed sneakers are not definitively photo-matched, however, Sports Investors Authentication has determined Michael Jordan wore the sneakers during a game either at the end of his rookie season or the start of his second year.
Interestingly, the pair is “double-laced,” a rarity for Jordan who mostly stuck to one lace per shoe. This pair includes a shorter red lace and longer black lace. One of the possible attributions cited by SIA is a game against the Pistons in October 1985 (the second game of the season) during which Jordan wore two laces.
This game was a key moment in the burgeoning Bulls-Pistons rivalry as Bill Laimbeer fouled Jordan hard during a reverse layup, leading to an on-court altercation between Bulls coach Stan Albeck and Pistons coach Chuck Daly, both of whom were ejected.
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At the end of the game, Laimbeer missed a free throw with two seconds left to seal the game for the Bulls. After a loose ball foul, Jordan headed to the charity stripe with the game already sealed.
“Jordan for sheer show here,” the announcer remarked as Jordan sank the first.
“Now, he hams it up left-handed,” the broadcaster said as he drained the second shot with his off hand. “The Chicago Bulls act like they just won the NBA championship.”
The following game, Jordan would break his foot, sidelining him for 65 games.
The sneakers were originally acquired from former Bulls equipment manager John Ligmanowski.
Air Jordan 1s have long been considered among the most collectible Jordan sneakers, not only for their classic look, but for game-used collectors, they trace back to the early days of Jordan’s career, before his gear became overly commoditized and plentiful.
Will Stern is a reporter and editor for cllct, the premier company for collectible culture.