It turns out the ball boy who asked for Michael Jordan’s shoes 30 years ago wasn’t a North Carolina fan but was mesmerized by his shoes.
Khalid Ali, a ballboy for the Lakers in December 1984, boldly approached the young Jordan during warmups at The Forum when the Chicago Bulls visited for the first time. Jordan was wearing some unique kicks that fascinated Ali.
He asked Jordan if he could have them after the game, but Jordan had planned to wear a different pair and promised the southern California lad he’d turn them over after the game.
One problem. It was against Lakers’ policy to let home team ball boys visit the opposing team’s dressing room.
The pair, believed to be the earliest Jordan professional game worn shoes known, are on the block this weekend at SCP Auctions. Preliminary bidding had pushed them past $18,000 but they’re expected to go much higher.
Ali sat down with Yahoo Sports recently to discuss his interaction with Jordan that December night and why he’s finally decided to part with them. Watch the video below. If you can’t see it, click here.
