His Heirness: Michael Jordan's Endorsements Pay Off

Michael Jordan has had success endorsing
many products, including Hanes.
Photo: Google Images

Everyone remembers Michael Jordan’s iconic slam dunk, with legs spread wide and the ball held high overhead before slamming home.

In fact, even those who haven’t seen the famous dunk in the game are likely to have seen it on their feet.

The memorable pose is featured on the internationally famous Jordan basketball shoes. 

The success that Jordan experienced on the court carried over to the business world, allowing Jordan to transform his last name into a brand. 

Jordan was surely one of the most exhilarating basketball players and showmen of all time, and his success on court translated to success in the business world with plenty of endorsement deals.

His list of product endorsements is a long one that includes major companies such as Hanes, Nike, Gatorade, and his own Air Jordan brand.

Although Jordan retired from basketball for good in 2003, he continues to make an estimated $40 million a year from endorsements.

Nike has maintained its relationship with Jordan even after his retirement, with a contract reportedly still worth $20 million yearly. 

While this may seem like a fortune to pay for endorsements by most athletes, Nike considers the investment worth it.

Nike president Phil Knight has said that “Michael Jordan is the greatest endorser of the 20^th century.”  

With new marketing campaigns for Hanes as well as being the face of a 2011 video game, NBA 2K11, Jordan’s image and brand continues to be successful long after his playing days.