On the 25th anniversary of Michael Jordan's iconic game-winning shot in the 1998 NBA Finals, the sneakers he famously wore during the Flu Game fetched a staggering sum of $1.38 million at auction.
The Air Jordan 12s were worn by Jordan in Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. Jordan was battling food poisoning and was so sick that he could barely stand. However, he put on a legendary performance, scoring 38 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter and the game-winning three-pointer with 25 seconds remaining.
After the game, Jordan signed the sneakers and gave them to Preston Truman, a ball boy for the Utah Jazz. Truman had earned Jordan's favor by regularly bringing him applesauce before games. As a gesture of appreciation, Jordan graciously gifted his signed sneakers to Truman.
The trainers remained in Truman's ownership for 15 years before he submitted them to Goldin Auctions in 2022 for sale. The auction attracted a great deal of interest, and the sneakers ultimately sold for $1.38 million, making them the fourth most expensive sneakers ever sold.
The sale of Jordan's Flu Game sneakers is a testament to his greatness and the enduring popularity of his brand. It is also a reminder of the power of sports memorabilia, which can often fetch astronomical prices.