The Air Jordan 6 "Salesman" Retro Revisits the Year 2000, Kicks Off 35th Anniversary

Jordan Brand is obsessed with pinnacle expressions of performance basketball, but it's developed a knack for story-telling throughout its history. For the first launch of the Air Jordan 6's milestone 35th anniversary, the eponymous imprint turns back the clock to the year 2000.

For the uninformed, Michael Jordan's sixth signature model under the Nike, Inc. banner launched in 1991. Although the world didn't know it at the time, it would be immortalized forever as it saw the Chicago Bulls guard secure his first NBA championship. Tinker Hatfield's design debuted in a "Black/Infrared" color scheme that's inspired other Air Jordan offerings over the years, but the original has maintained a degree of legend thanks to its on-court moments and uniqueness—no other AJ6 reissue has come close to the specifications of the OG.

That is, until now.

The Swoosh conglomerate introduced the Air Jordan 6 through a series of national ad campaigns. One memorable spot saw musician Little Richard play a genie who grants Spike Lee as Mars Blackmon the ability to fly. This ad inspired a modern remake to kick off Jordan Brand's Generational Greatness campaign, which champions women's empowerment and MJ's embodiment of greatness. Although the effort will see a number of products launch, its most-anticipated is arguably the AJ6's "Salesman" retro.

Unofficially dubbed "Reverse Infrared," the sneaker features the same color scheme with which the sixth Air Jordan debuted 35 years ago. Its color-blocking, however, differs. The "Salesman" pair references a oft-forgotten piece of footwear lore.

Leading up to the year 2000, Eastbay showcased the first-ever retro of Jordan's iconic silhouette. The pair boasted more "Infrared" detailing across the midsole. Ultimately, the style made available to the public reverted to Hatfield's original vision, leaving savvy consumers wondering about what happened with the scrapped retro. Long-known as the "Salesman Sample" AJ6, the sneaker will finally be made available to the public.

The design team behind the Air Jordan 6's milestone anniversary has gone through a long process with the goal of getting the model as close to the original as possible. The "Salesman" style sees a reshaped toe box, taller tongue, and most faithful presentation of the eye-catching "Infrared" color. Each detail helps tell the story of the legendary design, allowing existing and new fans alike to enjoy the pair beyond its use.

Jordan Brand's Generational Greatness campaign also kicks off with the help of Niecy Nash, who's been tasked with playing a genie for a remake of the spot from '91 featuring Little Richard and Mars Blackmon. Nash's role in the modern re-imagination champions the greatness of all—in particular women.

Enjoy detailed shots of the Air Jordan 6 "Salesman" ahead. Pairs are set to drop via Nike.com/Jordan and at select retailers come Saturday, Feb. 14. Full family-sizing is expected.

Keep it locked to House of Heat°'s dedicated Jordan Release Dates Calendar for more from "His Airness."