The Return of the Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard

Releasing online and in-store on Saturday 12 July 2025

July 09, 2025

In the world of sneakers, few stories carry the weight of Michael Jordan’s 1985 exhibition game in Trieste, Italy. That moment he drove to the rim with such force that he shattered the backboard is etched into basketball folklore. MJ in black and orange, shards of glass falling around him. It’s the kind of story that turns a sneaker into a legacy.

The Air Jordan 1 ‘Shattered Backboard’ first dropped in 2015. Bold orange, black, and sail came together in a colourway lifted straight from the jersey worn that day. But what set it apart was the quality. Premium tumbled leather. Unapologetically clean execution.

Now, in 2025, it’s coming back. Same story. Same colour blocking. Sail base, black overlays, orange accents. No gimmicks, no remixes. Just a reminder that some things are worth holding onto.

Air Jordan 1 'Shattered Backboard' | thegoodlife.

Beyond the aesthetic, what makes this release feel important is the story it tells. Jordan’s shattered backboard wasn’t part of an NBA highlight reel or a championship moment. It was a pre-season exhibition in Europe. It speaks to MJ’s intensity, even in a meaningless game. That spirit, of giving everything no matter the stage, is woven into the fabric of this sneaker.

Over the years, Jordan Brand played with the theme. A satin version appeared in 2018, followed by the “3.0” in 2019 with a crinkled patent leather finish. But the original makeup hasn’t returned since that first release. Until now. And this time, it lands with a small but sharp detail — a graphic on the insole showing a rim and shards of glass in mid-air. A subtle nod to the moment that started it all.

This release also comes dressed in storytelling from the ground up. Even the box leans into the lore. The packaging features a shattered glass effect and a bold line printed inside: “The backboard exploded.” It’s a small detail, but one that adds weight to the legend.