Concept Lab // Air Jordan 1 “Rafters”

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“… for all you’ve done for the game of basketball … You’re the best.”

Fun fact: Michael Jordan has his jersey number retired by an NBA team he never played for.

Before his final game in South Beach in 2003, Miami head coach Pat Riley retired Michael Jordan’s No. 23 from the Heat franchise, despite the fact that he never played for them. He did so out of respect for Michael’s illustrious career:

“In honor of your greatness and for all you’ve done for the game of basketball – and not just the NBA, but for all the fans around the world – we want to honor you tonight and hang your jersey, No. 23, from the rafters… No one will ever wear No. 23 for the Miami Heat. You’re the best.”

— Pat Riley

And rightfully so, not only did Mike tear apart the entire NBA over his 15-year career, but he had an exceptionally good time playing against Pat’s Heat, averaging 30.1 points in 38 career games against the franchise. So today, our Concept Lab team honor Mike’s unique achievement through a special edition Air Jordan 1.

We heard y’all like wear-aways and, like the LA to CHI AJ1, blending two team inspirations together never looked better. Our concept imagines the pair starting out as a Miami Heat-themed makeup, sporting white mid panels, burgundy-red toes and heels, and black collars, throats, and lace overlays — with the latter sporting a vibrant orange trim. But hiding beneath the top later’s Heat-themed paintwork is everybody’s favorite Air Jordan 1 “Bred”. Completing the design are dual #23 tongue tags, the right foot matching Mike’s iconic Bulls jersey, the left in Miami Heat’s typeface.

Wanna see more from the Lab? You can check out all of our Concepts HERE!