Sotheby’s is proud to present the Air Jordan XX “Doernbecher Freestyle”, an exclusive auction of 20 pairs of the Air Jordan XX in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Doernbecher Freestyle program.
Founded in 2004 through the ideation of retired Nike Creative Director Michael Doherty and his son Connor, the Doernbecher Freestyle program has pushed boundaries by combining young Doernbecher patients' imaginations with Nike's design innovation expertise, with all proceeds benefiting OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
Over its 20-year history, the program has been a powerful force for change, raising more than $37 million to support the health and well-being of children through nationally recognized clinical care, innovative research, quality education, and essential patient advocacy.
"Our future lies in our children, and every year Doernbecher Freestyle shows us that our future is in excellent hands"
The Doernbecher Freestyle designs tell the unique stories of the over 100 young patients who have participated in the program, demonstrating grace and courage through their journeys, bringing their personal experiences to life while helping improve the lives of countless other children.
This ongoing support over the last two decades has allowed many kids to rest easier, receive exceptional care, and embrace hope for a brighter future.
In 2024, legendary Nike designer Mark Smith came out of retirement to create a never-before-seen laser tapestry, using the Air Jordan XX—the model he originally helped design—as the canvas. This unique artwork tells the story of the last 20 years of Doernbecher Freestyle, capturing its legacy and impact through intricate details and design.
The laser print includes the initials of all 122 patient designers from the past 20 years, woven into a tapestry that celebrates their creative spirit. The design is also filled with meaningful emblems that reflect the program’s deep connection to the hospital, including:
–Symbols such as a frog, butterfly, sand dollar, and moon, which serve as wayfinders for children navigating the hospital
–The names of therapy dogs Davis and Casey, who have comforted countless patients
–Popsicles, a post-surgery treat cherished by many young patients
–The aerial tram at the Portland South Waterfront, a symbol of OHSU
–The red couch at Nike World Headquarters, where early Doernbecher Freestyle meetings were held
–The names of the program’s creator, Michael Doherty, and his son Connor, whose idea sparked the program
Each pair is numbered out of 20 and is accompanied by a “Doernbecher Freestyle” wooden box, a Nike “Doernbecher Freestyle” Tech Fleece Bomber, and a “Doernbecher Freestyle“ T-shirt.
Each lot is in new condition and is being manufactured concurrent with the auction, by Nike. Due to manufacturing timelines as well as sizing, there may be small, immaterial differences as compared to the provided photos and display. The lots are currently scheduled to ship before January 2025, but timing is subject to change.
100% of the Hammer price is being remitted to the Oregon Health and Science University Foundation to benefit OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. The Buyers Premium will be retained by Sotheby’s. No portion of the purchase price is tax-deductible.
