ESPN Report: UNC Basketball Legend Michael Jordan Seals $30 Million Endorsement Deal, Donates $10 Million to Program
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (June 20, 2025) – In a blockbuster move combining business savvy with deep-rooted loyalty, University of North Carolina basketball icon Michael Jordan has reportedly signed a new endorsement deal worth $30 million with global athletic apparel brand AirStride. According to multiple outlets citing an “ESPN report,” the pact not only marks one of the most lucrative off-court partnerships ever secured by a retired athlete, but also includes a headline-grabbing philanthropic gesture: a $10 million donation to Jordan’s alma mater’s basketball program .
Jordan’s gift reportedly represents the largest single donation ever made to UNC athletics by an individual. The funds are slated to support major infrastructure upgrades, strengthen player development pipelines, expand scholarship opportunities for both men’s and women’s teams, and enhance mental health and academic support services for student-athletes .
Reflecting on the gift, Jordan expressed in a statement, “UNC gave me everything. … This gift is about giving back to the place that gave me my start” . His words resonate deeply with Chapel Hill, where as a freshman he famously hit the championship-winning shot in 1982 under coach Dean Smith – a moment widely seen as the launchpad for his storied career.
UNC Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham emphasized the lasting impact of Jordan’s contribution, declaring that his dual legacy of leadership and excellence continues to inspire both current athletes and future generations .
While Jordan remains closely linked to Nike’s Jordan Brand, industry analysts note that the AirStride deal, centered on lifestyle wear, avoids any conflict with his ongoing Nike partnership .
Though the story is spreading rapidly across sports media, ESPN has not published the original report on its website or official channels. The details stem from secondary reporting; ESPN’s newsroom hasn’t confirmed the signing or the donation as of this writing. Until then, the deal—if verified—would cement Jordan’s reputation not only as the greatest player in basketball history, but also as one of its most impactful givers.