Tinker Hatfield’s original concept for the Air Jordan 9 is simple: a internationally influenced aesthetic for a globally recognizable icon. To that end, a sleek, modern silhouette featuring segmented leather uppers, a dynamic fit inner bootie, one pull lacing system and split Air cushioning (encapsulated forefoot, large volume heel) was embellished with a heel logo inspired by the Japanese rising sun, and inscribed on the soles with descriptive attributes of MJ in various languages. 

The Air Jordan 9 occupies a unique space in the Jordan pantheon. Originally released during the 1993-94 season, the shoe was the first Jordan model to be issued during a Michael Jordan retirement, and, because MJ’s return to the NBA didn’t occur until more than halfway through the 1994-95 season, the Jordan 9 was never worn on an NBA court by MJ. Rather, the banner for the Jordan 9 was trusted to a select group of player edition models for Kendall Gill, Mitch Richmond, BJ Armstrong, and most notably, Penny Hardaway. 

Black, nubuck uppers, reflective overlay and a subtle application of the university gold color that has become this variant’s unofficial nickname offer a sleek, modern design, fitting for the 9’s changing of the guard (temporarily at least) lineage. 

If a size is not listed, it is sold out. 

• Air Jordan 9 Retro 
• Black/University Gold/Dark Charcoal 
• CT8019-070