Before the first Air Jordans took flight in 1985, “Converse was the preeminent shoe brand,” according to Nike executive Howard White. Whether it was “Magic” Johnson, Detroit Pistons Bad Boy Isiah Thomas, or badass trash-talker Larry Bird, elite players wore Converse. Nike managed to get its foot in the door by snagging a few NBA converts, but Converse still had a huge leg up. Jordan was just a rookie when Nike reached out to them, but he had no interest in conversing. Per his agent, David Falk, Jordan “didn’t want Nike. He didn’t even want to get on the plane to meet with Nike.”

Falk pleaded with Jordan’s parents, who convinced the NBA upstart to talk with Nike. The company did its best to court him. Nike aired a highlight reel of Jordan playing college basketball. The presentation even had a soundtrack, which included the song “Jump” by the Pointer Sisters and Van Halen’s “Jump.” Jordan absolutely ate it up, but he still didn’t jump at the opportunity to sign with Nike. He reluctantly agreed to more meetings, and Falk insisted that the company add Jordan-themed shoes and attire to sweeten the deal. It was also Falk’s idea to dub the sneakers Air Jordans. He was imitating the nickname of the San Diego Chargers under coach Don Coryell: “Air Coryell.” Jordan was sold, and Air Jordans have been selling like mad ever since.