Hours before returning to the floor from a nagging left knee injury that prompted a sudden appointment with the world’s most renowned sports surgeon, Jimmy Butler acknowledged that he was throwing caution to the wind. “My team needs me to get us into the playoffs,” he told NBA.com.
It’s that kind of hyper-competitive thinking that defined the Chicago Bulls’ previous All-Star shooting guard, and also the mentality that Jordan Brand used as inspiration for its latest high-performance sneaker. And Butler, appropriately, will be the first player to wear it.
The Jordan.UltraFly draws parallels from Michael Jordan’s infamous nickname, “Black Cat,” for a new blend of unsurpassed substance and style. The UltraFly features a Kurim material overlay that evokes MJ’s feline alter ego, forming a cage-like upper that delivers custom fit and increased flexibility. An inner sleeve hugs the foot for a sock-like feel, while a nine-chamber Zoom Air unit provides responsive cushioning that flexes to the foot.
No player in the history of basketball struck with the purpose and decisiveness of Jordan when the stakes were highest. Will Butler follow in those footsteps, too? That remains to be seen. If his competitive zeal and desire for winning is any indication, though, it’s safe to say Butler won’t just help the Bulls to the playoffs – but thrive when they get there.
The Jordan Ultra.Fly will debut in three separate colorways on April 3 for $125. It will be available on Jordan.com and in select retail locations.
