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.

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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.

Turns out Michael Jordan’s vertical was just fine wearing Converse too … pic.twitter.com/D7B1R6cUeN

— Super 70s Sports (@Super70sSports) January 3, 2023

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.

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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.

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