Nike tried turning Michael Jordan into the Black Mamba before Kobe Bryant: "MJ doesn't like snakes"

It was in late 2003 when Jackie Thomas, Nike's director of marketing, finally met with Jordan to pitch how they would present ...

Chris Paul reveals how Michael Jordan spoils his Jordan Brand athletes: "He'll always look out"

Paul, alongside Melo, is considered by many to be the athlete who ushered the Jordan brand into the modern era. MJ and the ...

Michael Jordan received Nike’s first Black Mamba pitch before Kobe Bryant earned moniker

Before Kobe Bryant was known to all as "The Black Mamba," Nike intended for Michael Jordan to wear the moniker in 2003.
Total Pro Sports

Michael Jordan Turns Heads Celebrating 23XI Racing’s Back-to-Back Wins While Rocking Iconic Sneakers

Michael Jordan celebrated 23XI Racing’s NASCAR win in unreleased Air Jordan 4s as Tyler Reddick claimed the Autotrader 400.

Why Michael Jordan Turned Down Nike's 'Black Mamba' Campaign That Went to Kobe Bryant

The popular image and legacy of Kobe Bryant might be a lot different if Michael Jordan wasn't afraid of snakes.
Complex on MSN

What sneaker was Michael Jordan wearing? A complex quiz

Test your knowledge of Michael Jordan's on-foot Air Jordan sneaker history.

Air Jordan 11 Space Jam: You Can't Find a Smoother Sneaker - Release Date and Where to Buy

The Air Jordan 11 "Space Jam" returns December 12, 2026, continuing its legacy as one of the most iconic holiday releases in ...

How Kobe Bryant became Black Mamba thanks to pass by Michael Jordan

An ESPN report reveals Nike originally pitched the “Black Mamba” campaign to Michael Jordan in 2003 before Kobe Bryant made it iconic. Explore the stunning what-if scenario that could have reshaped ...