Billionaire Michael Jordan Gave Limited Power to His Own Athletes After Freeing Himself From Nike, Reveals 4x All-Star
Follow Us
In the 90s, Michael Jordan’s brand ushered in a new era with the introduction of Team Jordan. Team Jordan represented a strategic move by the Jordan brand to distinguish itself from Nike and operate independently. While the Jordan Brand remained under Nike, it was an important element that helped the brand to thrive. Present-day Jordan brand shoes showcase many personalizations and unique touches by athletes. Yet, a member of the first-ever Team Jordan shared that they had limited power to make changes.
In a recent interview with Brandon ‘Scoop B’ Robinson, Vin Baker spoke about the time his first-ever signature shoes as well as some more intriguing insights.
Athletes had less power over their Jordan Brand creations
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
During the conversation, Baker revealed that back in the 90s, he was excited to get his Jordan Brand shoe. Speaking of his limited power, he said, “I was very fortunate to be one of the first people one of the pioneers of Team Jordan, so not a ton of input.” He added, “But cuz I was just excited to have my own shoe, The Vindicator, Michael has been a great mentor to me, and having an opportunity to wear his sneakers and wear his stuff… was just awesome.”
Trending
Big Setback for Shaq, as $155 Billion Company Eyes Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith Post-TNT Era
May 17, 2024 10:54 PM EDT
“I Can Be Replaced”: Shaq Drops Cryptic Note Online As Absence From TNT Live Show Confuses America
May 20, 2024 01:32 AM EDT
“Jordan Slipping Him Cash”: Fans Join In as Magic Johnson Slams Stephen A. Smith for Leaving Isiah Thomas Out of His List
May 18, 2024 03:30 PM EDT
Where Is Shaquille O’Neal? 7ft Legend Leaves TNT Studios Mid-Show, Draymond Green Stands as Replacement
May 16, 2024 03:46 AM EDT
Shaquille O’Neal, Tempted by Elon Musk’s Tesla Creation, Offers $159,999 Worth Trade to 30YO Comedian
May 19, 2024 06:38 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
While the fame might not have been instantaneous, these shoes evolved into icons, embodying a unique and enduring significance in both fashion and sports culture. The first five endorsers, recognized as Team Jordan, were Eddie Jones from the Los Angeles Lakers, Ray Allen and Vin Baker from the Milwaukee Bucks, Derek Anderson from the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Michael Finley from the Dallas Mavericks.
Baker held the title of the ‘Strong’ athlete in the Jordan brand. During the interview, he mentioned how he was happy to be a part of the brand’s first initiative. The four-time NBA All-Star and an Olympic gold medalist solidified his status among the brand’s trailblazers and was assigned the sister shoe to the Jumpman Pro Quick.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Vin Baker was essential for the Jordan brand’s success
Sporting various Jordan team Player Exclusives, notably the Jumpman Pro 2 and the Jumpman Team 1, Baker’s connection with the brand was iconic. He was bestowed with two signature shoes from Jordan Brand: the Pro Strong, and the Jordan VINdicate.
Watch This Story: NBA Analyst Thrashes LeBron James’ Agent Rich Paul’s Comments on Pressure of ‘Following’ Michael Jordan: “He Had to Follow Magic (Johnson)”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Both the Pro Strong and the Jordan VINdicate emerged as standout Team Jordan releases, playing a pivotal role in propelling the brand forward. Baker’s influence, both on the court and in sneaker culture, subtly reshaped the landscape for the Jordan Brand.
Edited by:
Caroline Joseph