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UNC 4s: Why This Jordan Colorway Stands Out

Expert Advice

UNC 4s: Why This Jordan Colorway Stands Out

Nov 4, 2025

The University of North Carolina, Michael Jordan's alma mater, gets a lot of love from Jordan Brand. The UNC Tar Heels basketball program has won seven NCAA championships — six in the men's tournament, one in the women's. And the 1982 title-winning team included MJ himself. 

So if it seems like there's a new UNC Air Jordan colorway dropping every year, it's because the Tar Heels have been part of Mike's story for longer than Air Jordans, and the House of Swoosh respects the legacy.

Air Jordan 4s in the UNC colorway, aka UNC 4s, are among the most consistently popular sneakers in the Jordan Brand rotation, combining the timeless streetwear style of AJ 4s with the classic sporting heritage of the UNC Tar Heels.

Photo of hand holding Jordan 4 UNC

Clean, Icy, and Unmistakable

Whether it's the player exclusive (PE) UNC 4s Jordan dropped in 2025 or a classic like the Jordan 4s UNC "University Blue" colorway released in 2021, the principal features of an Air Jordan 4 in UNC colors will always revolve around the Tar Heels' famous Carolina Blue. The university's sports teams have been wearing blue-and-white colors since the 1880s, about 100 years before the launch of the Air Jordan 4.

 

The 2021 UNC 4s gave that University Blue upper speckled grey accents on the side panels and heel. The 2025 PE release stayed mostly true blue, with gold highlights, including a gold Jumpman logo. 

 

UNC colorways always bring a strong blend of on-court visibility and lifestyle appeal, qualities that make UNC 4s a consistent bestseller. 

 

And it doesn't hurt that the colorway connects to one of the most storied college basketball programs in NCAA history. Pull on a pair of UNC 4s and you're stepping into the shoes of Tar Heels legends like James Worthy, Vince Carter, Harrison Barnes and, of course, Michael Jordan.

From Court Heat to Tunnel Fits

The AJ 4 was on Michael Jordan's feet when he made "The Shot": the game-winning buzzer beater that took the Bulls past the Cavs in the 1989 NBA playoffs. And it's since graced the feet of everyone from Drake to Dr Dre, Travis Scott and Eminem. 

 

UNC Jordan 4s and other classic colorways show up repeatedly on streetwear fits, pairing comfortably with jeans, shorts, cargos or tech pants. Take a team colors approach and go head-to-toe UNC Nike sneakers and apparel. Or let your shoes do the talking with a neutral-toned fit.

 

Size-wise, expect AJ 4s to fit true to size. Consider going up a half-size if you have wide feet.

Cop Your Pair

Show your appreciation for one of the all-time great college basketball programs and the school where MJ sharpened his game for the pros. Pick up your classic UNC Jordan 4s online from Hibbett or via the Hibbett mobile app, or stop by your local Hibbett store to try on the latest Jordan sneakers. 

When highly anticipated colorways like UNC's 4s drop, don't miss out — keep eyes on the Hibbett launch calendar and you'll be up to date on all the latest release news and information.

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