Nike’s Michael Jordan brand launches its latest shoe this weekend as an ode to the basketball star’s home turf, complete with Charlotte Hornets colors.
Following an NBA career that included six championships, Jordan bought the Charlotte Hornets NBA team in 2010. The new shoes are the same white, teal and purple colors as the Hornets’ jerseys and have a “CHA” emblazoned on the side as a shoutout to the city.
The Air Jordan 10 Retro “Charlotte” will be available starting Saturday at 10 a.m. online and in select stores, a Nike spokesperson told the Observer.
The new shoes unite two of Jordan’s major businesses: his NBA team and his Jordan brand of shoes and apparel. According to Forbes magazine, Jordan made an estimated $100 million from Nike last year, helping make him the highest-paid retired athlete.
Jordan’s “Jumpman” logo is featured on the outside of the new Air Jordan 10 shoe and the inside heel. The sole pays tribute to Jordan’s most impressive achievements on the basketball court, including his rookie of the year award, most valuable player recognitions and championship titles.
Though Jordan, 53, was born in New York, he moved to Wilmington when he was a toddler. After high school, he won an NCAA championship at UNC Chapel Hill before starring in the NBA.
Jordan’s primary residence is in Florida, but he has a home in uptown Charlotte, his spokeswoman has said. Jordan’s mother has a home on Lake Norman.
Prices for the new shoes range from $140 to $190, according to Nike’s website. The shoes are available in men’s and youth sizes. There is a limit of one pair per customer.
In a further combining of Jordan’s businesses, the Jumpman logo on his shoes may one day find a home on the Hornets’ jerseys.
Earlier this year, the NBA agreed to terms that will allow corporate sponsors to place their logos on uniforms in the 2017-2018 season. In April, ESPN’s Darren Rovell tweeted that the Hornets will likely have Jumpman on their uniforms.
BREAKING: Adam Silver said it's likely Hornets will have Brand Jordan logo on jerseys in 2017-18, not the Nike logo like rest of league.
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) April 15, 2016
Rachel Stone: (704) 358-5334, @RStone1317
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