Toni Kukoc Chicago Bulls 1997-1998 Game Worn Sneakers | 1998 Eastern Conference Playoffs Round 1

These sneakers were worn by Toni Kukoc during the First Round of the 1997-1998 Eastern Conference Playoffs when the Chicago Bulls defeated the New Jersey Nets, 96-91. The Bulls would go on to win the 1998 NBA Championship, completing their second three-peat of the 1990s and capping off one of the most dominant runs in NBA history.

The left shoe was examined by Sports Investors Authentication and is accompanied with a photomatch letter from SIA.

Going Deeper | Toni Kukoc

Emerging as a key figure during the Bulls' second three-peat in the 1990s, Toni Kukoc left an indelible mark on the franchise's storied history.

Kukoc brought a unique blend of size, playmaking ability, and outside shooting to the Bulls lineup. Standing at 6'10", he possessed the vision of a guard and the scoring touch of a forward, making him a matchup nightmare for opponents.

Kukoc's impact was felt on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he could score from anywhere on the court, whether it be knocking down three-pointers, slicing through defenses with his crafty drives, or orchestrating the offense with his precise passing. Defensively, his length and basketball IQ allowed him to disrupt passing lanes and provide timely shot-blocking.

While Kukoc excelled as a complementary piece alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, he also proved his mettle in clutch situations, often stepping up when called upon. His versatility enabled Bulls coach Phil Jackson to deploy him in various roles, whether as a starter or coming off the bench as a sixth man.

Kukoc's tenure with the Bulls was defined by championship glory. He played a crucial role in the team's championship runs in 1996, 1997, and 1998, earning the admiration of fans and teammates alike for his unselfish play and basketball IQ. His performance in the 1996 NBA Finals, where he averaged 13 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, underscored his importance to the team's success.

Beyond his contributions on the court, Kukoc's international background and experiences added a global dimension to the Bulls' dynasty, further solidifying his place in basketball lore.