Michael Jordan partners with his old college as Nike-owned brand expands into football
NBA legend Michael Jordan has partnered with his old college in an apparel deal which will see the Jordan brand become the kit sponsor of the football team.
North Carolina will wear the Jordan brand from the start of the 2017 season.
The University of North Carolina's Tar Heels will join the Jumpman family for the 2017 season with the Jordan brand-owned by Nike- supplying the team’s uniforms, training gear and footwear. The length and financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
Jordan, a graduate from the university, was present during half-time of the Tar Heels' basketball game to make an official announcement of the partnership.
“I come back as a businessman to say I’m happy to extend the Jordan Brand relationship not only for the game of basketball but for the game of football,” said Jordan. “I’m a diehard Carolina fan no matter what sport is being played with UNC on its chest.”
Cutest thing I have ever seen pic.twitter.com/gwS2x1FX9t
— sydney fedora (@sydneyfedora) March 4, 2017
Larry Fedora, the football team coach at the University added: “We’re excited to partner with Michael Jordan – the greatest athlete of all-time – to bring the Jumpman into the Carolina football program.
“Michael’s impact on the University of North Carolina and the sports landscape in this state is incredible. Our partnership will bring us a greater association with MJ and his brand on the football field moving forward.”
The Tar Heels follow Michigan State as only the second college football team to have a kit supply deal with the Jordan brand which Jordan himself owns shares in.
The deal is part of University’s 10-year contract with Nike which was signed in 2009. The Jordan brand has been hugely successful for Nike and is estimated to have grown by 18% in the 2016 fiscal year to generated revenue of around $2.8bn for Nike. The popularity of the line help rejuvenate Nike's basketball division which help the company post better than expected growth on revenue last year.