The lucrative Nike and Michael Jordan deal signed in 1984 has paved the way for thousands of young athletes around the world to secure their future with enormous deals. Nike signed Jordan while he was yet to prove himself in the NBA. While many criticized the company’s policies, the deal ultimately led to huge profits. The upcoming ‘Air’ movie will showcase the nitty-gritty of the deal that changed basketball history forever.

Renowned actors Matt Damon and Chris Tucker play important roles in the film. During a recent interview talking about their latest release, director Ben Affleck and Tucker talked at length about their experience. Interestingly, it seems Tucker took great efforts in order to perfect his role.

Award-winning actor reveals co-worker’s dedication to Michael Jordan movie

Michael Jordan was already a huge star playing for the UNC Tar Heels. When he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls, the young kid was destined for greatness. However, it was still very early for one of the leading franchises in the world to offer him a record-breaking deal.

In Air, the director Ben Affleck takes the audience through the 1984 deal that changed history. ‘Rush Hour’ fame Chris Tucker plays the role of Howard White, who works with Philip Knight and Sonny Vaccaro to land the Jordan deal. Tucker engrossed himself in the character and went to great lengths to perfect the role.

Talking on ABC Australia, Affleck said, “He really dedicated himself to his research. He locked himself up in a hotel for a long time like he went deep into it. And I believe that in a movie that’s in a way inspired by a true story and that does take license with characters and Chris has got a letter-perfect, not impersonation, but performance.”

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This is Tucker’s first film since 2016. The trailers have already won over fans and celebrities around the world. Vaccaro, played by Matt Damon, was pivotal for the deal as he had recommended the name of the up-and-coming sensation Michael Jordan to Nike.

Tucker’s love for Jordan motivated him

Michael Jordan is one of the most beloved icons for anyone who grew up in the late 1980s and the 1990s. Chris Tucker is no different. The moment he found out he was going to be in a film about MJ, Tucker immediately buckled up.

“I love Michael Jordan. it’s my friend Howard White. Ben said I can do whatever I want to do. I love the brand, the Jordan brand. Let’s do it”, said Tucker. Interestingly, Jordan demanded that Howard White be represented in the film while he was being introduced to the movie. Ben Affleck certainly found the perfect actor to play that role in Chris Tucker.

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What are your thoughts on Tucker playing the role of White? Let us know in the comments.