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Days after Michael Kidd-Gilchrist announced via Twitter that he was aligning with Jordan Brand, the company is ready to confirm that…and more. Per a press release sent by Jordan Brand today, Kidd-Gilchrist as well as three other rookies, Kendall Marshall, Jared Sullinger and Jeffrey Taylor, are all officially new members of the exclusive JB family. From the Jordan release:
“We are thrilled to add these four great athletes to the Jordan family,” said Michael Jordan. “We feel like the work ethic and commitment to excellence that each of these young men personify is a perfect fit for what we stand for. We are looking forward to what they can accomplish on the court and in their respective communities.”
Kidd-Gilchrist, the No.2 overall pick in the 2012 Draft by the Charlotte Bobcats, is more than a casual sneakerhead. “I love sneakers,” Kidd-Gilchrist told SLAM in late August. “I’ve got over 200 pairs, easy.” Some of his favorites, he said, include the all-white Jordan IIIs, all-red Jordan Vs and the Olive IXs.
Not to be outdone by MKG, Marshall, the No. 13 overall pick the Phoenix Suns, donned quite a selection of Jordans while at UNC. “I’m not creative at all,” Marshall told SLAM last year, “but one day I hope to be on Team Jordan and get some player edition Jordans.” It’s clear from what he said then that he’s excited for JB’s off-court gear as well. “Retro Jordans have a special place in my heart just ’cause they’re Jordans,” said Marshall. “Greatest shoes ever made.”
Sullinger, the No. 21 pick in the Draft by the Boston Celtics, had on some fresh Concords at the Panini rookie photoshoot, and he’s represented by Michael Jordan’s long-time agent, David Falk.
Taylor, taken with the first pick in the second round by the Charlotte Bobcats, is a terrific athlete and defender with a lot of upside.
