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 segemented 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 enscribed 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. 

The University Blue Jordan 9 takes its cues from the Penny player edition, although the use of UNC inspired university blue, rather than the Orlando Magic shade, brings the design’s focus back to MJ himself. 

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

• Air Jordan 9 Retro 
• White/Unviersity Blue/Black
• 401811-140