Jordan 3 Retro "World's Best Dad" Launching 05/16 Colorway: SAIL/BLACK/UNIVERSITY RED/PALE IVORY Style: Men's and Kid's Sneakers

One of Michael Jordan’s most memorable career moments was the 1996 championship win he earnestly dedicated to his late father. Now, Nike and Jordan are honoring that legacy with a meaningful Father’s Day release fans will love. Be ready when the Air Jordan 3 “World’s Best Dad” drops on May 16 in full family sizing.

The Story Behind the Air Jordan 3 World’s Best Dad Release

On Father’s Day, 1996, Michael Jordan celebrated his fourth championship victory, but his first since the tragic murder of his father in 1993. After the game, Jordan collapsed on the locker room floor, sobbing and clutching the game ball. Photos of the response have become legendary, humanizing Jordan in a way that really connected with fans who have suffered a similar loss. He ultimately dedicated the win to his father, who he said was his “rock” and his greatest inspiration.

Now, the Air Jordan 3 “World’s Best Dad” colorway is releasing this Father’s Day in honor of both Jordan’s late father, that emotional championship win and beloved dads everywhere. Iconic Jordan 3 elements have been redesigned as a tribute to that iconic victory, with the locker room carpet textile replacing the traditional AJ3 elephant print and a color palette that matches the Bulls’ team colors.

The extra special release even comes in exclusive Father’s Day packaging, making it the ideal gift for the dad in your life out of the entire Air Jordan shoes list. Tuck the included custom Father’s Day card in the top for an extra personal touch to show him how much he really means to you.

Design Details Inspired by an Unforgettable Championship Moment

This release is the ultimate Father’s Day sneaker gift for collectors and basketball fans alike. The design details honor Jordan’s unforgettable championship response in a tribute to both his father and inspirational fathers everywhere.

The Sail leather overlay replaces the typical Jordan elephant pattern with the locker room carpet texture from Jordan’s emotional breakdown, giving it an extra layer of meaning. The translucent red outsole takes inspiration from the Jordan 11 “Bred” sneaker that Jordan actually wore during that fateful game.

On the back, fans will spot the legendary Jordan 3 Nike Air heel logo. But what really caps off this exclusive design is the hidden inner tongue text, which reads “World’s Best” for an extra special tribute to the best dad you know.

These sneakers make a great gift on their own, but they’re also a great pair with other Jordan apparel or accessories for a gift that shows Dad how much he means to you. While you shop for dad shoes, check out our Father’s Day style guide for more ideas to find the perfect fit.

How To Secure the Jordan 3 World’s Best Dad for the Whole Family

Grab these iconic Jordan 3s for your dad or the whole family. The Air Jordan 3 “World’s Best Dad” release date is May 30, and it drops in full family sizing so everyone in the family can get in on the fun, all the way down to your tiniest toddler. Snag your pair on launch day at Hibbett, and don’t forget to check out our launch calendar to see all the most anticipated drops as they’re announced.