This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/5/2010
Rare pair of Nike Air Jordan IV professional model sneakers worn by Michael Jordan during the 1989 NBA season. The sneakers show custom features including Jordan's number "23" embroidered near the outside heel area and the tongue area of both shoes features an embroidered Air Jordan logo. Appropriate game wear is evident, however, some deterioration has occurred on the foam portion of the sole of the left shoe and to a much lesser degree on the right shoe. Both shoes have been signed by Michael Jordan, "Best Wishes, Michael Jordan" on the outer ankle area in black sharpie. The signatures are vintage to the shoes and rate 9 out of 10. The 1989-90 season was Jordan's first with Phil Jackson as the Bulls new head coach. Jordan led the Bulls to a regular season record of 55-27, the Bulls’ best performance since they were under the leadership of Dick Motta in the 1971-1972 season. Michael Jordan was was dominant on both offense and defense, racking up a total of 33.6 points and 2.77 steals per game. MJ set a personal record of 69 points in overtime against the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning the game 118-117. Altogether in the regular season, Jordan averaged 33.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. Michael again made the All-Star Team, and was selected for the All-NBA first team and the NBA All-Defensive First Team. These shoes were given to the son of former All-Pro NFL quarterback Roman Gabriel. Gabriel, a native of Wilmington, North Carolina hosted fellow North Carolina native Michael Jordan at his home where these shoes were presented to Gabriel's son. A letter of provenance from Roman Gabriel III accompanies the shoes. Each show comes with an additional separate full LOA from JSA (auto. only). Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.