NBA legend Michael Jordan changed the course of sports contracts and sneakers with a ground-breaking deal in 1984. While Nike was a dying company, Jordan was an up-and-coming basketball prospect who was yet to prove himself in the NBA. Despite all the backlash, Nike went ahead and signed a young MJ. At the helm of all the contract negotiations was Howard White, who happens to be the longest-serving African-American Nike employee.

There is a big reason why White is one of the most adored and respected personalities in the business and sporting world. It was revealed by NFL legend Deion Sanders who was once signed to Nike.

Deion Sanders and Michael Jordan once dropped huge praises on White

The newly released ‘Air’ movie covers the iconic 1984 deal which tied down Jordan with Nike extensively. While the role of Sonny Vaccaro is widely known among fans at this point in time, Howard White played a huge role as well.

In fact, White was present in the room when Nike made the offer to MJ’s parents. He witnessed Jordan’s quick rise to fame firsthand and was also one of the frontrunners who helped establish the ‘Air Jordan’ brand. 

Not only the Chicago Bulls legend, but White has also worked for the benefit of various other sporting icons. One of them happens to be Deion Sanders.  

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“He makes you feel like a person, not just a prostitute for a company. H is the glue that keeps players at Nike”, said former NFL superstar Deion Sanders.

Interestingly, many have also termed White as the ‘heart and soul’ of Nike and Jordan. However, the vice president of Air Jordan humbly denied all such claims.

“The heart and soul of Nike and Jordan? I’m not sure I’m those things, and I’m not sure how it all happened. I’ve just kind of been me”, said Howard White during an interview with Andscape via Zoom.

Jordan didn’t take decisions without consulting White

If you had any doubts about the impact of Howard White, Michael Jordan’s words might change your mind. “I don’t do much without at least talking to Howard White”, said MJ in 1998. 

In fact, the billionaire NBA legend had ordered Ben Affleck to have White, or H as he is known, in the movie. White’s role was perfectly portrayed by Chris Tucker, who returned to the silver screens after a long hiatus.

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What is your favorite Jordan sneaker? Let us know in the comments below.