Next month, art enthusiasts and sports fans alike will have a chance to lay their eyes on some truly remarkable pieces of history as Sotheby’s gears up for its highly anticipated “Sports Week” auctions. This series of auctions will spotlight an impressive array of memorabilia connected to modern athletic icons and their groundbreaking achievements. From basketball to boxing, and everything in between, this event promises to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike with its treasure trove of iconic items.
The “Sports Week” auctions will comprise six live and online events, each dedicated to a specific theme or collection. Among the highlighted sports legends featured in the auctions are Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Muhammad Ali, Wayne Gretzky, Tom Brady, and Steph Curry, ensuring there is something for every sports enthusiast.
One of the standout lots set to go under the hammer is a pair of autographed shoes worn by Michael Jordan during Game 5 of the 1996 NBA Finals. These historic sneakers, gifted to two former Seattle Supersonics ball boys, are expected to fetch a staggering amount, with estimates ranging from $200,000 to $400,000. The decision to sell them as a pair adds to their uniqueness and appeal to avid collectors.
Another notable item up for auction is Muhammad Ali’s boxing trunks from the iconic 1975 ‘Thrilla in Manila’ fight against Joe Frazier. Previously sold for $118,500 in 2012, these historic trunks are now estimated to fetch between $4 and $6 million in the upcoming auction, a testament to the enduring legacy of “The Greatest” in the world of boxing.
The Los Angeles Lakers “Capsule Collection” is also set to draw considerable attention, with items such as Kobe Bryant’s Game 1 jersey from the 2009 Finals commanding estimates between $1.5 and $2.5 million. Additionally, a Lebron James jersey from his record-breaking 38,000th point game is expected to fetch between $300,000 and $500,000. Notably, a portion of the proceeds from select Lakers auction items will go towards the Lakers Youth Foundation.
The “Zenith” auction will offer sports enthusiasts the opportunity to own rare and coveted items, including Michael Jordan’s ‘Shattered Backboard’ jersey from 1985, Ernie Banks’ 500th home run jersey, and a Wayne Gretzky St. Louis Blues jersey from the 1995-96 season. These artifacts represent pivotal moments in sports history and are sure to attract spirited bidding from collectors.
For NBA enthusiasts, the 2024 All-Star Game memorabilia auctions are a must-see, featuring jerseys worn by basketball luminaries such as LeBron James, Victor Wembanyama, Steph Curry, and Sabrina Ionescu during the star-studded event. With such an eclectic mix of sports memorabilia on offer, the “Sports Week” auctions at Sotheby’s promise an unforgettable journey through the annals of athletic greatness.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or a seasoned collector, Sotheby’s “Sports Week” auctions offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports history and get up close and personal with the iconic artifacts that have shaped the world of sports as we know it. Mark your calendars for this one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the legends, moments, and memories that define the essence of sports excellence.
