1997 Chicago Bulls 'World Champions' Basketball | Signed by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Others

Sotheby’s is proud to present a basketball signed by members of the 1996–1997 Chicago Bulls, painted with the inscription “Chicago Bulls 1997 World Champions.” Coming off a record-setting 72–10 campaign the year before, the Bulls followed with a 69–13 regular season and another strong playoff run.

Led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, the Bulls combined individual excellence with a well-established team identity. Pippen played a central role on both ends of the floor, contributing as a defender, playmaker, and leader, and earning All-NBA Second Team honors. They were supported by a steady core that included Dennis Rodman’s rebounding and defense, Ron Harper’s work on the perimeter, and key contributions from Toni Kukoč and Steve Kerr.

Pippen later described the team’s mindset during the season: “As long as we’re on the basketball court, we feel like we have a chance to win, no matter what the score is.”

Chicago swept the Washington Bullets in the opening round of the playoffs, then defeated the Atlanta Hawks and Miami Heat to reach the NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. The Bulls won the series in six games to claim their fifth championship of the decade. The run is often remembered for Jordan’s Game 5 performance in Utah, played while battling illness, a moment that became part of the team’s larger legacy.

This ball was signed by Scottie Pippen, Michael Jordan, Randy Brown, Jud Buechler, Jason Caffey, Bison Dele, Ron Harper, Steve Kerr, Toni Kukoč, Luc Longley, Robert Parish, Dennis Rodman, Dickey Simpkins, Matt Steigenga, and Bill Wennington. This basketball comes directly from the Collection of Scottie Pippen.

The basketball is accompanied by a letter from James Spence Authentication in regards to the signatures.