We are all aware of the Goliath the Jordan brand is today. In 1985, a beaver decision by Michael Jordan would become the first step toward sneaker domination. The story is so good that actors Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are bringing it to the screens. As the basketball realm anticipates the arrival of Air, one of the actors spoke about playing the role of His Airness’ mother.

Surprisingly, it was Deloris Jordan’s keen observation trait that led to MJ signing the deal with Nike. One of the most esteemed actors, Viola Davis will be portraying the mother of the legendary basketball player. Any other role might have been a cakewalk for such an accomplished actor. However, in the case of Deloris, Davis had to learn how to get the ‘kill’.

Viola Davis reveals challenges playing the mother of Michael Jordan

The cast of Air is no less than an NBA All-Star lineup. Chris Tucker, Damon, and Affleck play crucial associates within Nike. On the other hand, Davis was tasked with the complex role of Deloris Jordan. And it has been no easy task.

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The Academy award winner had to learn to become a great listener and observer to nail the role. According to Yahoo News, she told audience members, “You have to be a great observer and a great listener. Those are the two things with acting. People feel like you are only involved when you’re speaking, but especially with playing Deloris, all she does is observe and listen. She’s gathering information before she comes in with the kill.”

The challenging role needed the appropriate training. The 57-year-old actor admitted having to closely observe Sonny Vaccaro, the man who orchestrated the deal. Deloris Jordan was truly a mastermind who taught Michael Jordan the value of self-worth. Without her, we might have never seen a single Air Jordan sneaker. But just what did she do to sway her son?

Why is Deloris Jordan so important to the story?

It didn’t take long for His Airness to become a charismatic star of the league. Within just a month, the world was aware of the phenom who was MJ. Brands began to quickly approach the six-time champion. At first, Jordan was blinded by a deal with Adidas. He even refused to meet with Nike.

However, owing to her observant nature, Deloris Jordan told her son to meet the executives at Nike. At that point, family meant the most to Jordan. And so, he agreed. That eventually led to him getting an offer for double the amount Adidas was offering. In addition, it also gave him the blueprints of his very own shoe. Deloris would also negotiate a deal for MJ to get a share of the revenue from the deal.

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Her involvement has now made Michael Jordan a billionaire. And the Jordan brand today is another company in itself. This only goes to show the valued family can have in one’s success.