Jordan Brand’s nod to history continues with an iconic tribute to the Air Jordan 1 High 85 Bred. Ahead of the shoe’s limited release, Jordan Brand celebrates the legacy of the “Banned” story by placing black bars over the shoes of Michael Jordan’s statue at the United Center.
The original Air Jordan debuted in 1985, pushing the boundaries of basketball footwear with its rebellious black and red design. Infamously banned by the NBA for violating uniform guidelines, the shoe became a cultural phenomenon. Michael Jordan, backed by Nike, wore the sneakers regardless, cementing the Air Jordan 1 as a symbol of defiance and greatness.
To mark 40 years of this game-changing sneaker, Jordan Brand and the Chicago Bulls collaborated to modify the statue of Michael Jordan. The iconic artwork, located at the United Center, now features black bars on MJ’s feet, replicating the censorship shown in Nike’s original 1985 “Banned” campaign.
This marketing effort coincides with the highly anticipated release of the Air Jordan 1 High 85 “Bred.” Limited to just 10,000 pairs and distributed across only 23 U.S. stores, the release underscores the shoe’s enduring legacy.
Jordan Brand’s year-long celebration encourages fans to pursue their own greatness, inspired by the ethos of the Air Jordan lineage. Whether you secure a pair or simply witness this symbolic homage, the spirit of the “Banned” campaign continues to inspire a new generation.
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