True sneakerheads would remember the Nike Air Jordan 1 “Brotherhood” colorway that came out in 2022. But few would know the shoes were a tribute to Michael Jordan’s fraternity,, Omega Psi Phi. Some may find it surprising that it’s one of the oldest American fraternities. It makes you want to know more about it, doesn’t it? Well, we have you covered.

Picture this–it’s the evening of November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C. And four brilliant minds—Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman, and their faculty adviser, Ernest Everett Just—come together in the Science Building (later renamed Thirkield Hall) to create something extraordinary. They weren’t just forming a group but building a legacy.

From the start, Omega Psi Phi had a mission. Its motto, derived from a Greek phrase meaning “friendship is essential to the soul,” became its motto. The fraternity adopted four guiding principles: manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. These weren’t just words but a way of life.

And here’s a fun fact: Edgar A. Love, one of the founders, became the fraternity’s first Grand Basileus (National President for those not in Greek life). It’s important to highlight that the early members didn’t waste time. By December 15, 1911, they had already organized the Alpha chapter with 14 charter members.

Fast-forward to 1914 and Omega Psi Phi was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia, solidifying its place in history. However, here’s where it gets even more inspiring: When the United States entered World War I in 1917, several Omega men were among the first Black soldiers to graduate from Camp Fort Des Moines.

So, where do the sneakers come in, you ask? Well, the “Brotherhood” Air Jordans nod to Omega Psi Phi’s colors and values.

More about Michael Jordan’s AJ1 “Brotherhood” sneakers

The Air Jordan 1 has been more than just a sneaker. It’s a storytelling platform celebrating Mike’s incredible journey on and off the court. One of the standout stories portrayed by the Air Jordan 1 series came to life in February 2022 with the release of the Air Jordan 1 High OG “Brotherhood.”

This special pair wasn’t just about eye-catching colors. But a nod to Omega Psi Phi, the fraternity Mike joined back in 1987. If you’re familiar with Omega Psi Phi, you’ll know its iconic purple and “University Gold” color palette. Jordan Brand brought these bold shades to life on the AJ1 in a vibrant and meaningful way.

The sunny gold covered the toe box, ankle flaps, and heel, while the rich purple wrapped around the overlays and collar. Apart from this, a crisp white base tied it all together, letting the fraternity’s colors take center stage. What stood out about the “Brotherhood” design was its balance. The white nylon tongues and midsole kept the look clean and classic, while details like the embossed Wings logo and printed insoles added a subtle, retro flair.

And let’s not forget that yellow rubber outsole—it’s functional, stylish, and rounded off the design perfectly. At USD 170, this pair wasn’t just a sneaker drop—it was a piece of MJ’s legacy. And his association with Omega Psi Phi.