In a decision heard ’round the world, Michael Jordan retired from the game of basketball to pursue a career in baseball. His announcement came shortly after the passing of his father, who had always envisioned his son as a Big Leaguer. MJ batted .202 with 3 HR, 51 RBI, 30 stolen bases, and 11 errors in a largely underwhelming campaign that was forever enshrined in cinematic classic Space Jam. (Mike also had a stint with the Scottsdale Scorpions in the 1994 Arizona Fall League.) Jordan sported the Tinker Hatfield-designed Jordan IX (9), his signature for the ’94-95 season in a cleated format. The shoe featured an all-black upper and was distinguished by Jordan’s number “45″ and a clever Jumpman “Globe” logo stitched along the heel. (Tinker crafted the IX in recognition of Jordan and the game of basketball’s newfound global influence.) Via NikeTalk’s American Dream.