Even as he approached his second retirement, Michael Jordan could still fly with the best of them.
On this play during the 1997 All-Star Game, Grant Hill was taking his second free throw. As he released the ball, Mike broke the three-point line on a sprint to the rim. The ball bounced off the front rim, then the backboard. Somehow Jordan timed it perfectly as the basketball drifted outside of the front lip of the rim. MJ went two-hands on the tip dunk as Shawn Kemp and Hakeem Olajuwon watched the show. All Mike could do was chuckle knowing everybody froze to watch him throw it down.
Michael wore the Air Jordan 12 during this memorable moment. The shoe features a full-length Zoom Air bag that is still being used by Nike and the Jordan Brand today. This is the first use of Zoom Air technology, forgoing Air Max for a bouncier, responsive experience. The large carbon fiber shank plate was carried over from the Jordan 11 to provide lightweight support under your foot.
The black and white “Playoff” colorway in this highlight can be found HERE.
You can find other colors of the Air Jordan 12 at StockX, GOAT, Flight Club, and Stadium Goods.
Cover image via Sneaker News