The venerable Tinker Hatfield, Nike architect of some of the most revered Jordan sneakers, dreamed up the AJ 12. He created a leather panel stretching from midfoot to toe, with sun-ray-like lines stitched into the upper (reminiscent of the Japanese flag’s rising sun design). This particular rendition features a black tumbled leather upper, but what gives the sneaker its boost is the cheerful, sun-like University Gold stitched overlay.
Another hallmark of the AJ 12 is the stacked high heel look, even more prominently outlined via this particular colorway. Hatfield found his inspiration for that feature in a 19th-century women’s high heel shoe. The first time Michael Jordan sported these sneakers was during the 1996–’97 NBA season.
Since MJ wore the 12s during the NBA Finals when he had a bout of illness, these shoes sometimes get referred to as “Flu Game.” And while the design — and the witty moniker — are extraordinary, so too is the game-changing technology featured within.
The AJ 12 was the first in the Jumpman lineup to include Nike’s Zoom Air technology. The full-length Zoom Air unit and soft foam midsole provide all the lightweight, responsive cushioning players young and old, expert or beginner need to take on their opponents. The sneaker’s solid rubber outsole assists players with the perfect balance of durability and traction, on the court or the playground.
Premium details embellish this luxe basketball sneaker, from the black metal eyestays to a cleverly placed University Gold “Two 3” spelled out along the shoe’s throat. An elongated heel tab with a Jordan label reads “Quality Inspired by the Greatest Player Ever,” while the ball-holding hand of the Jumpman insignia reaches up from the outsole toward the shoe’s toe.
This sophisticated black and University Gold shoe perfectly channels the spirit of the Jumpman brand and Michael Jordan himself. Pick up a pair of these truly exceptional sneakers beginning July 24. We’ll have them available in toddler, pre-K, grade school boys’ and men’s sizes both in-stores at Hibbett | City Gear and online.
The Nike N7 Summer 2025 collection is set to arrive at Hibbett, continuing its impactful mission of celebrating Indigenous communities across North America. This year's release integrates Native culture into essential sportswear, offering a powerful blend of heritage and contemporary design.