To celebrate the GOAT’s birthday, we have linked up with Mark Thomas, founder of Jumpman Journals, a sneaker lifestyle guide based in London who has a vast collection MJ products.

Since its inception in 1984, the lauded Jordan franchise has a rich history from when the first model was created for the six-time NBA champion to when performance tech was introduced on the Air Jordan 3 and revolutionized the sneaker world. There is no doubt that Jordan is a legend in all senses of the word, and the sneakers that bear his name are no different, so there’s no surprise that the franchise has a long-standing status in basketball and sneaker culture.

Through his platform, Mark has developed a community dedicated to Air Jordan silhouettes and sneaker culture. In the spirit of jumping all racial and social barriers, Jumpman Journals celebrates original ideas and entertaining content to help the community explore the creative arts. Jumpman Journals has become ‘a platform to celebrate the works of art we wear on our feet’, as well as promoting ‘togetherness and a love for one another’.

Funko Pop NBA

First up in this selection of Michael Jordan memorabilia, is the selection of Funko POP! NBA collectables. Whilst his son preferred Marvel characters, Mark liked to build up his collection of basketball players too. This included the likes of Chris Paul, Kevin Durrant, Lebron James, Scottie Pippen and of course a couple of Michael Jordans. These were more of a front for Mark to collect some basketball icons that he loves – especially when it’s the G.O.A.T.

NBA Magazines

It wouldn’t be a Jordan fan collection without an obsession with NBA magazine prints. Mark Thomas subscribed to SLAM Basketball Magazine, keeping a steady flow of iconic basketball stars in print, and once again, short and long reads on Michael Jordan were in abundance.

Book: Michael Jordan: A Unique Insight Into the Career and Mindset of Michael Jordan by Steve James

A book to pay homage to the goat was expected too, his favourite is Michael Jordan: A Unique Insight Into the Career and Mindset of Michael Jordan (2017) by Steve James. Chronicling the goat’s unstoppable career and mentality, this book is a must-have for fans of MJ, and sport in general. This was recommended by Mark’s friend, and what a recommendation it was.

Air Jordan 1 ‘Cactus Jack’ – keychain

This Air Jordan 1 ‘Cactus Jack’ keychain celebrates one of the most sought-after collabs with Travis Scott – showcasing the impact that MJ has had on culture on and off the courts. This was also a birthday present from his son Lucas, so it means a lot to him, although this might be a hint that he wants Mark to buy him a pair – maybe one day.

OG Nike sneaker tabs- Sneakers: Air Jordan 3 ‘Patchwork’, Air Jordan 5 ‘Concord’, Air Jordan 13 ‘French Blue’ & Air Jordan 4 ‘Midnight Blue

This is more of a personal item; keychains take him back to his first pair of Air Jordans – the Air Jordan 4 ‘Bred’. He has everything from the Air Jordan 3 ‘Patchwork’ to the Air Jordan 5 ‘Concord’, Air Jordan 13 ‘French Blue’ and the Air Jordan 4 ‘Midnight Blue’. All colourways that deserve endless praise, and they are certain to induce plenty of nostalgia for fans.

NBA Jersey: Black Alternate jersey

The classic stitched black jersey with a red trim, this Michael Jordan #23 Chicago Bulls Basketball Jersey is a collector’s item and a half. Different to the usual red or white kits, this one is from the 1995-1996 season, representing a time that MJ was at his absolute peak. Another present from his son – he sure knows how to buy his dad presents.

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