After losing a triple overtime game to the Phoenix Suns at home, Michael Jordan knew he had to turn his game up to win game 4 of the 1993 NBA Finals.
Mike was aggressive from the start, driving to the rim at will. Things even got chippy in the first half, with MJ getting into a scuffle with Danny Ainge. Despite the scoring from Jordan, the game was close with the Chicago Bulls up 2 with 33 seconds and the ball. The Bulls whittled the clock down to just a few seconds before Mike received the ball, drawing an instant double team. Mike drove past the double though, eventually colliding with Charles Barkley with a flip shot that hit backboard and in. The and-1 play prompted Mike to jump up with both fists in the air with glee, as the Bulls put away the Suns with a commanding 3-1 series lead. The damage for MJ: 55 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
The sneakers Mike laced up for this game was the Air Jordan 8. The AJ8 is known for its cross-strap system, that many called “Bugs Bunny” ears. This helped lockdown your foot in the shoe. Heel and forefoot Air units are encased in the midsole for an extra bounce when running and landing.
The shoe also was designed with features that were purely for aesthetics. TPU plates added to the medial and lateral sides above the midsole that often featured patterns and colors synonymous with the 90s. This (now) retro look also showed through on the fluffy, chenille circle surrounding the Jumpman logo on the tongue. A wild pattern also appeared on the neoprene bootie on the black “Playoff” Jordan 8 to add even more eye-catching detail.
That black “Playoff” colorway that Mike played in this game can be found HERE.
You can find the Air Jordan 8 at StockX, GOAT, Flight Club, and Stadium Goods.
Cover image via Bleacher Report