A notable sneaker worn by Michael Jordan in the 1996 film "Space Jam" is scheduled to return to the market in Fall 2026 after a 10-year absence. The Air Jordan 9 in the White, Black, and True Red colorway, which appeared briefly in the movie, will be re-released for the first time since 2016.
While the Air Jordan 11 is more famously associated with the film, this specific Air Jordan 9 model has its own distinct history and cultural significance. The upcoming release is expected to retail for $215.
Key Takeaways
- The Air Jordan 9 in the White/Black/True Red colorway is scheduled for a Fall 2026 re-release.
- This model was worn by Michael Jordan in the 1996 movie "Space Jam," though it is less famous than the Air Jordan 11 from the same film.
- The shoe has a retail price of $215 and marks the first release of this colorway in a decade.
- Originally launched in 1993, Michael Jordan never wore this specific colorway during an NBA game due to his first retirement.
The History of the Air Jordan 9
The Air Jordan 9 was first released in late 1993. Its launch coincided with a significant moment in sports history: Michael Jordan's first retirement from the NBA, which he announced just a month prior. Because of this timing, Jordan never wore the White/Black/True Red colorway on the professional basketball court.
Despite Jordan's absence from the NBA, the silhouette remained visible. He wore a different, cleated version of the Air Jordan 9 while playing minor league baseball for the Birmingham Barons. This connection to his baseball career gave the shoe a unique place in his signature line.
The design of the Air Jordan 9 was globally inspired, reflecting Jordan's transition into an international icon. The outsole features words in different languages that describe his character and playing style, such as "intense," "dedicated," and "graceful."
On-Court Presence Without Jordan
While its namesake was on the baseball diamond, the Air Jordan 9 found a home on the feet of other NBA stars. Jordan Brand created custom colorways, known as Player Exclusives (PEs), for several prominent players.
Players who wore the Air Jordan 9 during the 1993-94 NBA season included:
- Penny Hardaway
- Nick Anderson
- Mitch Richmond
- Kendall Gill
These players helped maintain the shoe's visibility and relevance in the basketball world, even without Michael Jordan's direct involvement in the league.
A Shoe for a Global Icon
The Air Jordan 9 was designed by Tinker Hatfield during a time when Michael Jordan's fame had reached global proportions. The shoe's design elements, particularly the multilingual text on the sole, were intended to celebrate his worldwide influence beyond the sport of basketball.
Connection to "Space Jam" and Pop Culture
The shoe's link to "Space Jam" is a key part of its legacy, though it is often overshadowed by the more prominent Air Jordan 11. Michael Jordan wore the Air Jordan 9 during scenes where he was practicing basketball before joining the Looney Tunes team. This appearance cemented its place in film and sneaker history.
Interestingly, the "Space Jam" nickname for this Air Jordan 9 is a relatively new development. The name was not widely used until Jordan Brand officially incorporated it into the marketing for the 2016 retro release. Before that, it was primarily known by its colorway.
A Cultural Footprint Beyond Basketball
The White/Black/True Red Air Jordan 9 was also famously worn by the late rapper Tupac Shakur. He was photographed wearing the sneakers in the liner notes for his album "All Eyez on Me," further solidifying the shoe's status as a cultural icon in the 1990s.
Previous Releases and Retro History
The upcoming 2026 release is not the first time this classic colorway has been made available to the public since its 1993 debut. Jordan Brand has re-released the model several times over the years, each time generating interest from collectors and new fans alike.
The retro release timeline includes:
- 2002: The first retro release, bringing the shoe back nearly a decade after its original launch.
- 2008: Released as part of a "Countdown Pack" alongside the Air Jordan 14. These packs paired two different Jordan models whose numbers added up to 23.
- 2010: A standalone retro release that was popular among sneaker enthusiasts.
- 2016: The most recent release, which formally adopted the "Space Jam" nickname in its marketing campaign.
The 2026 version will mark a full decade since the sneaker was last available, making it a highly anticipated release for those who missed out on previous opportunities or are looking to own a piece of sneaker history.
Release Information for the 2026 Edition
According to reports from sneaker information sources Sneaker Files and @zsneakerheadz, the Air Jordan 9 Retro OG "Space Jam" is planned for a Fall 2026 launch. Consumers should be prepared for what is expected to be a high-demand item.
The re-release provides a new generation of fans the opportunity to connect with a key moment in Michael Jordan's multifaceted career, spanning both his time in film and his brief departure from basketball.
Key details for the release are as follows:
- Model: Air Jordan 9 Retro OG "Space Jam"
- Colorway: White/Black/True Red
- Style Code: HV4794-106
- Release Date: Fall 2026
- Retail Price: $215
- Availability: Expected at Nike's SNKRS app and select Jordan Brand retail partners.
As the release date approaches, Jordan Brand will likely provide more official images and specific launch details. For now, the announcement sets the stage for the return of a significant, if sometimes overlooked, piece of the Air Jordan legacy.