Michael Jordan will always be remembered for his 13 years with the Chicago Bulls, where he won six NBA championships and earned five MVP awards. However, there was a very brief stint in his career where he played for the Washington Wizards. Back in 2001, after coming out of retirement for the second (and very last) time, Michael Jordan joined the basketball team as a player and part-owner. Although his time with the Wizards was not as successful as his years with the Bulls, it still holds significance in his iconic basketball career. For one, during this time with the Wizards, Jordan became the first 40-year-old player to average over 20 points per game in a season. It’s also the period when he chose to wear the Air Jordan 17 Low silhouette. This Wilson Smith III design boasts a sleek and futuristic look, and now the Air Jordan 17 “University Blue” colourway is returning.
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First released in 2002, the Air Jordan 17 Low wasn’t what you would call an instant classic. Despite its unique design and innovative features, it didn’t receive the same level of acclaim as some of Jordan’s earlier sneaker releases. However, the Air Jordan 17 Low has gained a cult following over time and is now recognized as an essential part of Jordan’s sneaker legacy. It’s been quite some time since this silhouette has received any attention, with the model last seen in February 2018 with the Solefly x Air Jordan 17 Low collaboration. However, this classic silhouette is slated to make a comeback next year with a retrospective release of the Air Jordan 17 “University Blue” colourway.
The sneaker is decked out in a striking combination of white, university blue, black, and chrome. This colourway, also known as the “Carolina”, pays homage to Michael Jordan’s alma mater, the University of North Carolina, which he attended before entering the NBA.
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The sneaker also offers an integrated lace-up closure and a Dynamic Fit inner sleeve inside to provide the foot with unrivalled support and a locked-in fit. The backbone for powerful movements is a full-length shank plate and a TPU heel stabilizer which keep the foot steady and under control during quick cuts and jumps. The herringbone traction pattern on the outsole ensures superior grip, and the light Phylon midsole guarantees supportive, responsive cushioning. In short, the sneaker is designed to enhance performance and provide the necessary support and stability for basketball players, making it an ideal choice for those looking to excel on the court.
With its simple yet stunning “University Blue” colourway, premium materials, and advanced technology, this sneaker offers top-notch performance and stands out in terms of style. Get ready for the return of this classic silhouette as it gets ready to take the basketball world by storm next year.
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The Air Jordan 17 Low University Blue will release Air Jordan 17 Low in Spring 2024. The sneaker is rumoured to sell for $250 or $300 and will be available at select Jordan Brand retailers and online at Nike.com. If you are interested in getting your hands on a pair, stay tuned for further updates on the release date, and follow us for more exciting sneaker releases and updates.
Are you excited for this blast from the past with the return of the Air Jordan 17 Low “University Blue”?
Sources: Sneaker Bar Detroit, Bulls.com, My Basketball Academy
