Michael Jordan Honors Nike Legend George Raveling for Instrumental Role in Historic Shoe Deal
Michael Jordan Pays Tribute to Mentor George Raveling After Nike Icon’s Death at 88
By Max Winters, US Deputy Sports Editor | Updated: 20:47 BST, 2 September 2025
[Image: George Raveling smiling in a suit. Caption: Hall of Fame coach and Nike executive George Raveling passed away at 88.]
Michael Jordan has honored George Raveling, the trailblazing basketball coach who played a pivotal role in his historic Nike partnership, following Raveling’s death after a battle with cancer. The NBA legend called him a lifelong mentor and credited him as the catalyst for the Air Jordan brand.
A Legacy of Mentorship
In an emotional statement, Jordan said: “I’m deeply saddened by George’s passing. For over 40 years, he blessed me with wisdom and friendship. He was a mentor in every sense. I signed with Nike because of him—without George, there’d be no Air Jordan. He broke barriers and changed countless lives.”
Raveling’s family confirmed his death in a social media post, writing: “He faced cancer with courage and grace. His divine presence and wisdom live on in all he touched.”
[Image: Jordan and Raveling shaking hands. Caption: Raveling convinced Jordan to sign with Nike, sparking a cultural phenomenon.]
From Courts to Corporate Triumph
Raveling’s impact spanned decades. As a legendary college coach (335–293 career record at Washington State, Iowa, and USC) and Nike executive, his greatest legacy was linking Jordan to the brand. At the 1984 Olympics, Raveling introduced Jordan to Nike strategist Sonny Vaccaro. The resulting deal granted Jordan an unprecedented 5% royalty on every Air Jordan sold, earning him over $1.5 billion and revolutionizing athlete endorsements.
Beyond Basketball: A Keeper of History
Raveling’s story extended beyond sports. In 1963, while volunteering as security at the March on Washington, he secured Martin Luther King Jr.’s original “I Have a Dream” speech. King handed Raveling the notes after the address—a document he safeguarded until donating it to Villanova University in 2021.
[Image: Raveling holding MLK’s speech. Caption: Raveling preserved MLK’s iconic speech, later donating it to Villanova.]
A Warrior On and Off the Court
A Villanova basketball standout (1957–60), Raveling rebounded from a career-ending NBA draft snub to become a pioneering coach. He mentored future legends like Jordan and served on Olympic staffs in 1984 and 1988. A horrific 1994 car crash shattered his ribs, collarbone, and pelvis, yet he continued inspiring others post-retirement.
Remembering a Giant
Tributes poured in, including from Villanova coaching icon Jay Wright: “George was a loving friend and mentor. His heart was restless, kind, and now rests with the Lord.”
Raveling’s legacy echoes in every Air Jordan sneaker and in the lives he uplifted. As Jordan said: “He paved the way for so many.”
[Image: Raveling surrounded by family. Caption: Raveling’s family shared he passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.]
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