Basketball has always been more than just a game—it has the incredible power to inspire and drive positive change. In the world of sneakers, no one embodies this potential quite like Howard “H” White, the legendary figure and mentor who has helped shape Air Jordan and countless lives around the globe. Now the Vice President of Jordan Brand Affairs and a co-creator of Jordan Brand Wings, his remarkable impact on the brand and the global basketball community is being honored with the highly anticipated release of the limited-edition Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings. Let’s delve into the story behind this iconic sneaker and the inspiring journey of “H” White.
Honoring a Storied Career
The Air Jordan 2, a silhouette cherished by “H” himself, has been meticulously crafted to replicate the original 1987 design specs, ensuring an authentic shape and fit. Drawing inspiration from his time at Virginia’s Kecoughtan High School, the shoe’s color palette pays tribute to the team where “H” first discovered his passion for basketball—a team that later propelled him to become an All-American player and an NBA draft pick. The upper quarter panel features a hand-sketched wings graphic, skillfully designed by Israel Mateo, Jordan Brand’s Special Projects Footwear Designer. Crafted with premium leather, the shoe exudes timeless elegance. The translucent heel counter showcases a gold foil “H” logo, reminiscent of “H” White’s iconic college jersey, symbolizing his pursuit of excellence. Notably, the lace tips bear the inscriptions “Power” and “Belief,” directly inspired by the qualities that “H” has brought to Jordan Brand.
The Vision of Jordan Brand Wings
Central to the remarkable story of Jordan Brand Wings is “H” White’s vision. His unwavering commitment to inspiring the next generation laid the foundation for the brand’s community programs, including Jordan Brand Wings. In 2015, “H” collaborated with a dedicated group to establish the Jordan Brand Wings initiative, with a mission to empower young individuals to define greatness on their own terms through higher education, mentorship, and access to opportunities. Every year, a Wings shoe is released to celebrate the achievements of the students in the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Program, a testament to their dedication and perseverance.
Welcoming the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars
Coinciding with the launch of the Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings this year is the heartening announcement of the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Class of 2027. This year’s class comprises 38 driven and committed students from Los Angeles, New York City, Portland, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Charlotte, making it the largest North America Wings Scholars cohort to date. Each of these remarkable individuals embodies the spirit of “H” White’s vision, demonstrating a relentless pursuit of their dreams and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
The highly anticipated Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings will be released on June 10, exclusively on the SNKRS App. This limited-edition sneaker not only pays homage to the extraordinary career of Howard “H” White but also serves as a reminder of the power of basketball culture to uplift and move the world forward.
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