Khalid Ali Tells Story on Michael Jordan Game Worn Shoes

If you asked a sneakerhead "What was Michael Jordan's first Nike shoe?" Many truly believe and would answer with "the Jordan I". The reality of that statement is a bit untrue. His first signature shoe was the Jordan I, but Jordan donned Nike's Air Ship as a rookie and now we have a story on a rare pair of game-worn Jordan kicks. From Darren Rovell of ESPN: INDENT HEREIn December 1984, Jordan had already signed a five-year, $2.5 million deal with Nike, but the Air Jordans weren't ready to go on his feet for every game. So Jordan wore the Air Ships in three different colors before his signature shoe was finished.



Khalid Ali was a ball-boy for the Los Angeles Lakers in the mid 80s. Growing up as a Georgetown fan, he was devastated to see a Freshman Jordan knock down a game winner against his beloved Hoyas.  From that moment on, he knew MJ would be special. Oh was he right. In Jordan's first appearance at The Forum, Ali built up the courage and broke some rules. He had approached Jordan before the game and asked for the sneakers post-contest. Jordan was kindly enough to promise the young man the size 13 kicks.



Jacques Slade interviewed Ali and helps us understand the situation as the kicks went to auction in the video below. Another media outlet, Darren Rovell of ESPN reported on the final figures as the shoe exchanged owners. The Earliest MJ NBA game-worn pair has sold for $71,553: 

 

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