Michael Jordan is the GOAT, which is why it’s impossible to think about basketball without recalling MJ’s heroics over a trophy-laden 15-year NBA career. Even the most casual basketball fan is aware of his accomplishments, but many people are unaware that Jordan and London have a history. Nike is spotlighting the overlooked narrative in a short film during Black History Month.
Michael Jordan visited and trained with the Brixton Topcats in London following the NBA Draft in 1985. Despite the fact that he was only in his early stages of his basketball career, Jordan was already one of the biggest names in sports. MJ spent time playing at the Brixton Recreation Center in South London after being invited by coach Jimmy Rogers.
Nike has collaborated with director Sekou Abineri to develop a new movie focusing on the Black British experience through the perspective of Jimmy Rogers’ South London basketball squad, as Black History Month begins in the UK. “Informally dubbed ‘The Bishop of Brixton’ by locals, Jimmy’s tireless commitment to his community mirrors Brixton’s wider radical history of protest and uprisings against racism, police intervention and political exclusion, and the DIY spirit in Black British culture,” Nike explains. “Now a new generation, still inspired by Jimmy’s community work, are uncovering new forms of excellence.”
The story is being told in collaboration with Jordan Brand, and will be accompanied by a series of Real Talks held on the Jumpman YouTube channel, with the goal of educating and raising awareness about the Black experience.
After 36 years, Michael Jordan is coming to Brixton – not just as a player, but as someone who recognizes the significance and influence of coach Jimmy Rogers’ work, and its impact on Black youth.
