Video: ESPN’s “Gotta be the Shoes” Celebrates 50 Years of Jordan

Long ago, a shoe endorsement was the pinnacle of an athlete’s commercial success. Then, Michael Jordan arrived and became the first athlete to be a “brand.” After the first pair of Nike “Air Jordan” basketball shoes rolled out, the former Chicago Bulls guard elevated his profile from superstar to transcendent, cross-over commercial icon. Now, almost 30 years since the first sneakers debuted and nearly a decade since Jordan retired as a pro athlete, his brand endures and continues to perpetuate his basketball legacy. All trademarks and copyrights belong to their respective owners.