When Michael Jordan made his NBA debut, few expected it to be with his very own signature shoe brand. Nike’s Air Jordan was an instant success, bringing in more numbers than Nike thought it would. As Jordan grew as a player, so did the popularity of his brand.

Even today, years after his retirement, people love to own a pair of Jordans.

However, back in 1984, it was not so common for a rookie to have a shoe brand of his own. What is even more unexpected is the success, and how others reacted to it. Jordan, who is easily one of the greatest athletes of all time, seems to have been aware of this attention, and the jealousy that came with it.

Why were other stars jealous of Michael Jordan?

According to Jordan, he was well aware of the jealousy Air Jordan brought along. Well, the brand and its popularity.

READ MORE: Clippers Coach Ty Lue Reveals Which Forgotten NBA Star “Was the Same Talent” As Michael Jordan

“It was a great idea,” Jordan said. “It was a great concept and the next thing you know, it got bigger than any shoe contract, which I think had a lot to do with the jealousies and animosities throughout the league.”

Magic Johnson, who had an initial deal with Converse, was included. The Los Angeles Lakers legend was disappointed over their inability to market him well and was hoping for a Magic brand.

Jordan’s agent, David Falk, also spoke about the brand deals. And how others were jealous of Jordan. As per Falk, people froze him out, simply because they were jealous and he was a rookie who had something they did not.

How much was Air Jordan expected to make?

While on Netflix’s The Last Dance, Falk revealed that Nike expected a sum of $3 million. In a year, they had sold $126 million.

Furthermore, Jordan maintained the perfect poker face during the meeting. When he admitted to loving their pitch, Falk realized how smart a 21-year-old Jordan actually was. Interestingly, it was Falk who came up with the name ‘Air Jordan’, as the young player had yet to play an NBA game. As it was Falk’s idea, they wanted him to suggest a name.

WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordans Exclusive Golf Course In Florida Clearly Shows The Luxuries Of Being A Billionaire

With the brand releasing new shoes every year, Jordan’s brand is as popular as ever. Athletes even look to endorse the brand, often promoting and wearing the shoes to games.

Do you have a favorite Air Jordan shoe? Let us know in the comments below.