Behind the Design: Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year'

Every legend has a starting point, and for Michael Jordan, that moment came in 1985 when he was crowned NBA Rookie of the Year. That season, MJ put up 28.2 points per game, electrified fans around the world, and redefined what it meant to be a rookie. In celebration of that milestone, Jordan Brand brings back a fan-favorite concept with a new twist: the Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year,' dropping on April 19, 2025. This release distills a moment of history into a timeless low-top silhouette—bridging past and present in classic Jordan style.

History of the Air Jordan 1

Nike's first Creative Director, Peter Moore, was tasked with designing the Air Jordan 1. Michael Jordan wanted something different than the typical Nike and Converse basketball shoes already out. He didn’t want a shoe high off the court like Nike’s latest releases, which used their newest Air technology. After one specific design meeting with Jordan, Moore sketched the winged logo on a cocktail napkin during a flight back to the Nike HQ. This logo, featuring a basketball in the middle, became the hallmark of the Jordan 1. Returning to Nike HQ, Moore went to work and designed a silhouette that became timeless.

The Air Jordan would debut on April 1, 1985, at a retail price of $64.99. Nike aimed to sell 100,000 pairs in its first year and reach $3 million in revenue by year 4. Instead, Nike generated $55-$65 million in revenue during year one, with millions of pairs being sold. From then on, it was clear that Michael Jordan’s new signature line would change things forever. Although Jordan has openly stated his dislike for some of the colorways, he stuck with Moore’s vision, and the rest is history.

Behind the Design: Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year'

The Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year' reimagines a historic look in a sleeker, more casual form. Featuring golden harvest suede overlays, a white leather base, and black and red accents, the color palette is inspired by the jacket Jordan wore the night he accepted the Rookie of the Year award—subtle, stylish, and full of meaning. The clean midsole and black outsole keep things grounded, while signature Jordan details on the tongue and heel lock in the heritage. This is more than just a retro—it’s a wearable reminder of MJ’s rise, his mindset, and the confidence that launched a legacy.

The Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year' honors the moment Michael Jordan became more than a player—he became a phenomenon. With materials and colors that reference a pivotal time in basketball history, this release invites both longtime fans and new collectors to celebrate where it all began. The Air Jordan 1 Low 'Rookie of the Year' releases on April 19, 2025, and you can find your pair on KICKS CREW.