Jordan's shoes slam-dunk deal

Published on Thursday 5 November 2009 21:59

NOT since Robbie Fowler was punched by Neil Ruddock at Liverpool – Google it – has there been such a commotion over a pair of shoes than the contretemps involving basketball legend Michael Jordan's son, Marcus.

First-year guard Marcus wore a pair of white Air Jordans during UCF's exhibition game against Saint Leo on Wednesday, the Orlando Sentinel reported on its website. Jordan has said he will wear only his father's Nike Air Jordan shoes because they hold special meaning to his family.

That piece of family tradition has not gone down well with German manufacturers adidas, who have a contract with Jordan's team, University of Central Florida.

And Jordan's family ties have now cost the team that deal.

"The University of Central Florida has chosen not to deliver on their contractual commitment to Adidas," said adidas spokeswoman Andrea Corso. "As a result we have chosen not to continue our relationship with them moving forward."

UCF are in the final year of a five-year contract with Adidas which requires coaches and athletes to use the company's apparel and equipment.