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WATCH: Before Wearing Iconic Nike Air Jordans Michael Jordan Had a 42-Inch Vertical Even in Converse

Jeet Pukhrambam
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WATCH: Before Wearing Iconic Nike Air Jordans Michael Jordan Had a 42-Inch Vertical Even in Converse

Michael Jordan was known for his skill set, but what helped him go above the rest, quite literally and figuratively was his vertical. MJ possesses the NBA’s record in the vertical jump.

And we think, his Nike Airs made virtually no difference. Yes, while the brand that does $5 billion in revenue might have marketed that their product was the difference maker. However, the truth was merely a fragment of the marketing campaign.

The one thing that gave MJ his true “hops” was his long Achilles tendon. It is the fifth-longest in NBA History and a huge reason why he can jump. And if you don’t believe us, take a look at this picture.

Also read: Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight Vs Wizards? Bucks Release Injury Report for 2x MVP

Michael Jordan’s vertical was insane even in Converse

Even when he wore the iconic Chuck Taylors, or Converse as the brand was called, back in his UNC Days, MJ could jump.

Just take a look at these highlights. And you will see just how high he was able to take off.

And if that wasn’t enough, this picture will show you that Jumpman was Jumpman long before he donned the swoosh.

Jordan was a Converse loyalist and wanted to follow in the steps of greats like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. But fate had other plans.

Also read: Despite Investing In A $1.89 Trillion Company, Shaquille O’Neal Believes Kids Less Fortunate Than Him Can Become More Successful

Michael Jordan had a deal with Nike shortly after

Phil Knight’s cunning and Converse not wanting to shell out too much meant that Jordan had an opportunity to make a brand for himself, and so did Nike.

The running shoe maker went from just that, a niche brand to the world’s largest sportswear brand, all on the back of one man, Michael Jeffrey Jordan.

His lifetime deal means MJ makes over $100 million a year through royalties, a number that will soon shoot up once we see the 2022 figures.

Also read: Who Scored the Most Points In An NBA Game – Donovan Mitchell Joins Kobe Bryant, Wilt Chamberlain At The Top Of The List

About the author

Jeet Pukhrambam

Jeet Pukhrambam

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Jeet Pukhrambam is The SportsRush's Lead Editor for Basketball. After freelancing for five years as an independent writer, Jeet created thousands of blog posts and articles. He now covers intriguing news reports and throwback stories on all things NBA. His interest in NBA started with the ascendancy of Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2016-17 season. Since then, Jeet has managed to coalesce his knowledge of the game and his writing to create pieces that are reflective of the current state of the league. Now, he ensures that The SportsRush produces the highest quality of writing. In his free time, he enjoys playing football, cooking, traveling, and dancing to techno. Jeet takes pride in his critical thinking, music playlists, and his love for spaghetti.

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