Ranking Michael Jordan's Best Washington Wizards Sneakers

Ranking the sneakers Michael Jordan wore during his stint with the Washington Wizards.

Michael Jordan Washington Wizards Sneakers
Image via Jed Jacobsohn for NBAE / Getty Images
Michael Jordan Washington Wizards Sneakers

As much as fans try to pretend otherwise, Michael Jordan's two-year stint with the Washington Wizards happened. He didn't go out on top, hitting a game-winning shot to clinch a sixth NBA championship. Instead, he walked off the court after taking free throws against the Philadelphia 76ers in a 20-point regular season finale loss and already out of playoff contention. But as the game's greatest competitor, it had to be this way. Jordan wasn't wired for storybook endings—much like his brief attempt at professional baseball, he needed to give everything he had until there was nothing left.

That's not to say that the Wizards run was a complete bust. At ages 38 and 39, Jordan averaged 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in two seasons. Health willing, he probably could have dragged an underwhelming Wizards team to the playoffs in 2001-02. He could still play—just not as efficient or exciting as he once did.

Beyond basketball, Jordan's return gave fans the opportunity to once again see His Airness take the floor in his iconic signature sneakers. He was able to lead the launches of Air Jordans 17 and 18 as an active player, adding some context to a part of the line that was in desperate need of it. Perhaps more importantly, he fueled a budding retro market that would eventually become the driving force behind a multi-billion dollar business.

As the "True Blue" Air Jordan 3 heads back to stores, we're taking a look at the sneakers Jordan wore during his time with the Wizards and ranking them from worst to best. Read on to see the best pairs from MJ's third act. 

14. Jordan Team FBI "Midnight Navy"

Michael Jordan Jordan Team FBI White/Blue

13. Jordan Team FBI "Varsity Red"

Michael Jordan Jordan Team FBI Varsity Red

12. Air Jordan 18 "White / Royal"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 18 White/Royal

11. Air Jordan 18 "Varsity Red"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 18 Varsity Red

10. Air Jordan 18 "Black / Royal"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 18 Black/Royal

9. Air Jordan 17 Low PE

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 17 Low PE

8. Air Jordan 17 Low "Lightning"

Air Jordan 17 Low Lightning

7. Air Jordan 16 "Ginger"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 16 Ginger

6. Air Jordan 17+ "Copper"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 17 Copper

5. Air Jordan 17 "College Blue"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 17 College Blue

4. Air Jordan 7 Retro "French Blue"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 7 French Blue

3. Air Jordan 9 Retro "Cool Grey"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 9 Cool Grey

2. Air Jordan 3 Retro "True Blue"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 3 True Blue

1. Air Jordan 11 Retro "Cool Grey"

Michael Jordan Air Jordan 11 Cool Grey