Next month, the famous Sotheby’s auction house will be hosting a spectacular event that is sure to set the hearts of sports enthusiasts racing with excitement. Dubbed “Sports Week,” this series of auctions will offer a glimpse into the illustrious careers of some of the most iconic athletes in modern history. From the magic of Michael Jordan on the basketball court to the grace of Muhammad Ali in the boxing ring, this event promises to be a treasure trove of sports memorabilia that will leave collectors clamoring for a piece of history.
The “Sports Week” extravaganza will unfold across six live and online auctions, all taking place in the vibrant city of New York. The lineup includes a diverse range of themed auctions, each focusing on a different aspect of the sports world. Whether you’re a basketball aficionado or a fervent fan of boxing, there’s something for everyone in this dazzling array of offerings.
One of the standout lots in the upcoming auctions is a pair of autographed shoes worn by the legendary Michael Jordan during Game 5 of the 1996 NBA Finals. Expected to fetch an impressive sum ranging from $200,000 to $400,000, these shoes hold a special significance as they were gifted by Jordan himself to two former Seattle Supersonics ball boys, who now seek to pass on this priceless piece of history to a lucky bidder.
Another show-stopping item up for grabs is Muhammad Ali’s boxing trunks from the iconic 1975 ‘Thrilla in Manila’ fight against Joe Frazier. Having previously sold for $118,500 in 2012, these trunks are now estimated to command an astronomical sum between $4 and $6 million, showcasing the enduring legacy of the legendary boxer and the historical significance of this unforgettable match.
The Los Angeles Lakers “Capsule Collection” will also be a major highlight of the event, with featured items including Kobe Bryant’s Game 1 jersey from the 2009 Finals, projected to sell for $1.5 to $2.5 million, and a Lebron James jersey from his historic 38,000th point game, estimated at $300,000 to $500,000. Not just an opportunity to own a piece of basketball history, a portion of the proceeds from select Lakers auction items will also go towards benefiting the Lakers Youth Foundation, adding a philanthropic touch to the excitement of the auctions.
For those with a taste for the artistic side of sports, the “Zenith” auction will offer a curated selection of important sports artifacts, including Jordan’s iconic ‘Shattered Backboard’ jersey from 1985, Ernie Banks’ milestone 500th home run jersey, and a Wayne Gretzky St. Louis Blues jersey from the 1995-96 season, providing a unique peek into the cultural significance of sports memorabilia.
Lastly, NBA Auctions will add to the excitement with a selection of memorabilia from the 2024 All-Star Game, including jerseys worn by basketball luminaries like LeBron James, Victor Wembanyama, Steph Curry, and Sabrina Ionescu during the thrilling showcase of talent and skill at the event.
So mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the annals of sports history with Sotheby’s “Sports Week” auctions. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or a fervent sports fan, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the legends and moments that have defined the world of sports as we know it.
