It’s the 40th anniversary of the Air Jordan 1. And Nike’s greater-than-ever marketing has us all looking back at its history. From the iconic story of the NBA banning the red and black colorway to branching out with Jordan Brand, his story was a historic run. It shows how the collaboration changed everything in the sneaker world. And that also makes us think of who made it all possible. The famous sports drama movie Air reflects on that, and finally, Michael Jordan‘s reaction to it all is revealed!

Ben Affleck’s film, Air, featuring Matt Damon, generated significant buzz with its announcement and launch. The Chicago Bulls legend didn’t make any appearance in the movie. “It was a deliberate choice. I thought he was too majestic to have anyone impersonate him and – as I told him – ‘You’re too old to play the part,’” Affleck explained the reason to The Hollywood Reporter. However, the 6x NBA champ was closely involved with it. During the director’s latest appearance at Los Angeles Got Sole, he revealed several details, including MJ’s reaction to the movie.

When asked whether MJ liked the movie, Affleck said, “He said he did… The best part of that movie was the opportunity to spend time with him and hear what he cares about and talk about his family,”. While Affleck’s decision to leave Jordan out of the film was a bold move, it clearly didn’t hurt its success. In fact, Air went on to earn more than $90 million at the box office. 

The movie follows the story of former Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro. Back in 1984, when the brand was struggling with low sales, Vaccaro, who had watched former UNC star Jordan’s skills and influence, convinced the brand’s marketing VP Rob Strasser and CEO Phil Knight to consider the then-rookie player.

Despite Jordan’s early interest elsewhere, the real-life Vaccaro convinced him to ink a $2.5 million, five-year contract with Nike. But this wouldn’t have happened without Jordan’s mother, Deloris Jordan. Vaccaro had to convince Jordan’s parents before securing the deal. Viola Davis’ portrayal of Deloris Jordan was pivotal to the film’s emotional depth and authenticity.

Ben Affleck was worried about Michael Jordan’s one condition

And that is why Jordan had probably placed this important condition on Affleck regarding the movie. While the real reason is unknown, he wanted Emmy and Oscar winning actress Viola Davis to play his mother. Affleck was a bit worried about whether Davis would take the role.

“He (MJ) talked about his mother. He just said, ‘None of this would have ever happened without my mother doing everything.’ I said, Who would you like to play your mom?’ And he said, ‘It has to be Viola Davis.’ I always felt that if I was a director one day, and I had Viola Davis in a movie, that would really be something. That would mean the world to me,” Affleck said at SXSW 2023. It was a defining moment for both Jordan and Affleck. Even Davis herself was surprised when she heard MJ’s wish.

With a 98% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and widespread audience praise, Air cemented its place as one of the most celebrated sports films in recent years. And Jordan’s special request paid off as the audience fell in love with Davis’ portrayal of Jordan’s mother.