When Larry Johnson's shoe deal surpassed Michael Jordan's: A look at the NBA's history of sneakers

Former NBA player Larry Johnson recently revealed on Facebook that in 1991 he received the largest shoe deal in history, surpassing even Michael Jordan's iconic deal with Nike. While Jordan was earning $500,000 per year from Nike, Johnson's deal with Converse was worth $1 million.

At the time, Johnson's "Grandmama" alter ego was taking the world by storm, starring in a series of sneaker brand TV commercials that were incredibly popular. His success was so widespread that people would line up in a snowstorm to get an autograph from him, and even years later, his Grandmama commercials are still fondly remembered.

Despite Johnson's moment in the sun, Jordan's deal with Nike remains the most successful shoe deal in NBA history. Jordan's shoes continue to sell like hotcakes, and they are still some of the most coveted sneakers on the market. Jordan's success in business has been widely celebrated, but some players have criticized him for manipulating the system to get ahead.

It's interesting to think about the ways in which shoe deals have shaped the NBA over the years. Players have become as well known for their sneakers as they have for their skills on the court, and fans will line up for hours to get their hands on a pair of the latest must-have kicks. Johnson's massive deal with Converse may not have eclipsed Jordan's in the long run, but it's a testament to the power of branding and marketing in the world of professional basketball.

In the end, both Jordan and Johnson have had a lasting impact on the world of sneakers, and their deals will be remembered for years to come. As the NBA continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see even more players with massive shoe deals, as shoe companies look to capitalize on the popularity of the league and its stars.

work cited:

Basketball Network. "Larry Johnson on beating MJ's shoe deal." Basketball Network, 28 Mar. 2023, www.basketballnetwork.net/old-school/larry-johnson-on-beating-mjs-shoe-deal.