Michael Jordan’s Iconic ‘Flu Game’ Sneaker Is Finally Coming Back
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The seemingly never-ending stream of upcoming Air Jordan releases continues to expand with the reported return of one of Michael Jordan’s most memorable sneakers.
The Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” is reportedly set to rerelease during spring 2025. In terms of backstories, there are few Air Jordans that can compete with this pair. It was worn by Jordan during Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals where the Chicago Bulls squeaked by the Utah Jazz with a 90-88 win to take a 3-2 series lead.
Jordan was infamously ill, battling flu-like symptoms as he played through nearly the entire game. It’s been speculated that he was suffering from food poisoning or a similar affliction, but it didn’t stop him from putting on a show. Despite showing clear signs of sickness on the court, Jordan finished with 38 points including a game-clenching three-pointer in the final seconds. The heroic performance is considered one of the NBA’s all-time greatest, and the “Flu Game” sneakers Jordan wore have been similarly lauded.
Part of the Air Jordan 12’s original run, the “Flu Game” colorway features a black-and-red tumbled leather upper and was first released in 1997. The sneaker saw its first retro reissue in 2003. In 2009, Jordan Brand released a special version of the “Flu Game” which used black suede instead of leather and featured various references to Jordan’s under-the-weather showing. The style last appeared in 2016 in its original form.
Other Air Jordan 12 releases of note includes the new “Barons” and “Blueberry” styles. Meanwhile, the original Air Jordan 12 “Taxi” is also expected to return in ’25.
Now, the storied sneakers are expected to join the packed slate of ’25 Air Jordan launches. According to @zsneakerheadz, the Air Jordan 12 Retro “Flu Game” will be released in full family sizing during spring ’25. Pricing has not been confirmed, but the model currently retails for $200. The ’16 iteration is pictured below.
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