They call him “Money” for a reason. Aside from being straight cash on the court, Michael Jordan has proved one of the best businessmen in the basketball footwear industry. Just how good? Forbes reports that in 2013 alone he made $90 Million off his Jordan Brand partnership with Nike. Here’s a few things to put in perspective:
Forbes reports that last weekend the Air Jordan 10 “Powder Blue” did $35 Million in first-day sales alone. Conversely, the adidas D Rose signature line did $40 Million in all of 2013.
It’s not just Derrick Rose that the retired legend is outselling. LeBron James, the highest selling signature star in the NBA today, sold $300 Million worth of shoes in 2013. Jordan did $2.25 Billion in 2013.
Lastly, if anyone’s questioning Kanye West’s knowledge of the industry, it appears Yeezy’s understanding is pretty on-point. In the interview with Angie Martinez where he announced his partnership with adidas, he discussed his issue with Nike regarding his lack of royalties as an artist as opposed to an athlete, citing Michael Jordan’s profitable situation as an example. “Michael Jordan has 5%, that business is $2 billion. He makes a $100 million dollars a year off of 5% royalties,” said West. Examining the numbers reported by Forbes, he’s not far off.
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