Why is Michael Jordan considered one of the greatest players to ever set foot on the hardwood? Some would say the impact he had on the sport, his defensive prowess, maybe? Some would argue about his work ethic or how he made the NBA global. Whereas some would remind you of his unmatched feat of 6-0 in the NBA finals. Unlike many legends, he never lost on the biggest stage. Not only did he win six championships, but he also secured Finals MVP in all of them. He led the Bulls to two separate three-peats (1991-93, 1996-98). Which other modern NBA player can compare to that?

Many would remember the 1991 Gatorade “Be Like Mike” campaign. The commercial captured Jordan’s influence, inspiring kids worldwide to imitate his skills and try to be like him. At the time, although he had only won one championship, the world already saw him at the top. Just that ad turned into motivational for countless budding talents.

However, not everyone agrees with the idea of “being like Mike.” In a debate, Rashad McCants pointed out that LeBron James never won three straight titles, let alone six. The argument led to Gilbert Arenas pointing out how powerful the Gatorade’s 1991 campaign was. He pointed out, “You can’t have a campaign that said I want to be like Mike. You made everybody in the world want to be like Mike”. Even McCants joined and agreed, recalling just how hard it is to surpass Jordan’s feat.

He stated, “it’s damn near impossible for you to do six and O and win.” To this Gilbert pointed out how every kid wanted to become someone like Jordan. However, he added the counterpoint of this too, “To then realize if you actually tried to be like him, you got your head cut off”. But McCants insisted that only Kobe Bryant faced that level of scrutiny. However in saying so, he inevitably proved Gil’s point. Overall, Jordan’s legacy remains untouchable. Many have tried, but no one has truly been “like Mike.”

How Jordan Brand redefined the game

Michael Jordan’s influence stretches far beyond basketball. His legacy touches sports, entertainment, and fashion. But what if the Air Jordan never took flight? In 1985, NBA rules nearly prevented it. Back in 1985, the NBA had a strict rule—players had to wear mostly white sneakers. MJ’s bold red-and-black Air Jordans? Completely against the dress code.

The league tried to shut it down, but Nike had other plans. Instead of backing off, they paid the fines and turned the controversy into history.

Thankfully, that didn’t happen. To celebrate 40 years of dominance, Jordan Brand is rewriting sneaker history, imagining a world where Nike never paid MJ’s fine for his red-and-black sneakers.

The campaign kicked off on December 23, making waves instantly. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts wore Air Jordan cleats that violated the NFL dress code. The league fined him, but Jordan Brand stepped in. Their response? “We’re paying the fine” and “You can’t ban greatness.”

From commercials to digital blackouts of Air Jordans, the message is clear: greatness can’t be stopped. Even NBA 2K25 joined in, banning Air Jordans from the game.

Jordan Brand’s latest campaign video features top athletes and entertainers, celebrating its past, present, and future. Ultimately, one truth remains: Greatness is unbannable.