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A new frenzy has erupted in the sneaker world as one of the most coveted Air Jordans makes a rare appearance. Fans and sneakerheads worldwide are once again left heartbroken, their dreams of owning this elusive masterpiece dashed. The fragment design x Air Jordan 3 collaboration, Nike’s rare gem, has resurfaced nearly four years after its initial debut, leaving netizens awestruck yet wistful.

This sought-after pair bears a striking resemblance to the “Racer Blue” Air Jordan 3s but boasts exclusive details that set it apart. The iconic lightning bolt logo, a hallmark of the Japanese label fragment design, adorns the heels, adding to its allure. The sneakers feature solid black panels on the toe cap and heel, complemented by white tumbled leather uppers. Light gray and blue accents highlight the perforated sections, with blue details enhancing the Jumpman and Nike Air logos, the eyelets, and the text-trimmed midsole.

Despite the excitement, these sneakers remain tantalizingly out of reach. An Instagram reel by Sole Loco showcased the sneakers with the caption, “These are so RARE😳 This pair is SOLD #sneakers #sneakerhead #reels #jordan.” According to the post, the shoes are valued at a staggering $130,000.

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Hiroshi Fujiwara, the visionary behind fragment design, hinted years ago that these sneakers would never see a public release. The Japanese streetwear icon first unveiled the pair in 2019 at a Nike event in Hong Kong, instantly cementing them as a “holy grail” among collectors. While these will likely remain unobtainable, sneakerheads and MJ lovers can look forward to one of the biggest releases of 2025.

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Nike re-released ‘Shattered Backboard’ 

The Air Jordan 1 High OG “Shattered Backboard” is set to make a highly anticipated return in September 2025, this time as a public release. Priced at $180, the iconic sneakers will be available through Jordan Brand retailers and Nike.com, giving fans a chance to own a piece of basketball history. This design holds a legendary backstory.

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Fragment design x Air Jordan 3: Worth the hype or just another overpriced collector's item?

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In 1985, during a Nike-sponsored exhibition game in Trieste, Italy, a young Michael Jordan delivered a performance for the ages. Wearing the original Air Jordan 1s, the future Chicago Bulls legend scored 39 points and, in a moment of sheer dominance, shattered the backboard with a thunderous dunk. This unforgettable incident not only immortalized the sneakers but also inspired their initial release in 2015.

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For the 2025 iteration, the sneakers will feature an updated Black/Black-Sail-Starfish colorway, offering a fresh twist on the classic Black and Orange design. This re-release coincides with the Jordan Brand’s 40th anniversary celebration, promising a lineup of extraordinary drops.

Highlights include the iconic Air Jordan 1 “Bred” and the Undefeated x Air Jordan 4, further amplifying the excitement for collectors and fans. With such thrilling releases on the horizon, the countdown to September 2025 is officially on. For sneaker enthusiasts, the wait promises to be well worth it. Which is your favorite MJ memorabilia? Tell us in the comment section below!

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Fragment design x Air Jordan 3: Worth the hype or just another overpriced collector's item?