Jordan Release Calendar

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Not everyone was fortunate enough to witness Michael Jordan take the court for the Bulls (or the Wizards). Those of us who gained consciousness after Jordan’s final retirement in the early 2000s have a strong and distinct memory of seeing Space Jam, which, in tandem with the stories we were told of Jordan’s escapades in the NBA, built him into legend status among the youth.
Of course, the Looney Tunes crossover film also featured some great footwear moments that we’re always happy to revisit, like the OG Air Jordan 9 colorway and the Air Jordan 11s worn by MJ in the final game against the Monstars. Finally, after a decade off shelves, Jordan Brand is bringing back the Air Jordan 11 Space Jam with some new details.
If you owned any pairs of Space Jam 11s over the years, you’ll know that the versions released to the public were all slightly different than the ones in the film. When he took the court in Space Jam for the Toon Squad, his Air Jordan 11 featured his number “45” on the heel, but the releases in 2000 and 2009 all contained MJ’s number “45,” which he wore for a brief period of time after returning from his first retirement. The 2016 retro added "45" to the heel, and the 2026 retro will bring back the "23," but this time stitched on instead of pressed.

If you own the 2016 Space Jams, your Jumpman logos will come in Concord purple just like the pair MJ wore in the film. However, just like the original 2000 release of the colorway and the '09 retro, the 2026 pair will feature a Varsity Royal logo. Another detail returning from the OG drop 26 years ago is the stylized “Jumpman Jam” text on the tongue, replacing the usual “Jordan Jumpman” logo.
The Air Jordan 11 Retro Space Jam will be released in December 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in full-family sizing, the retail price is set at $255 for adults. Check below for a first look at the 2026 retro of the Space Jam Jordan 11 and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest happenings in the sneaker world.
Images via fkzdrop

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com



