Howard University and Jordan Brand have inked a 20 year partnership to elevate Howard’s athletic programs. On top of the partnership with Howard University, Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand has a $100 million dollar commitment to the Black Community to support organizations fighting for systemic change in America.
Vandyke Jones, the director of equipment at Howard University told HOT 97 that “we’re one of the few schools that’s working direct with Jordan.” Meaning that Howard athletics no longer needs to source equipment and jerseys from often expensive third-party vendors. “We’re excited to get the same types of deals that Power 5 schools have,” Jones explains.
Similarly, a deal of this nature helps to entice recruits to come to Howard for athletics. “You tell a kid that we’re working with Jordan and everyone goes crazy,” said Jones.
Jordan and Howard University Ink 20-Year Deal.
This sort of validation from a major brand is just one of a number of co-signs from major players in the sports world to further elevate HBCU sports. Vandyke noted “just knowing that a major brand is investing in your athletic department is huge.”
Overall the Jordan brand will be seen on Howard athletes, as well as their famous Showtime Marching Band. The partnership spans across athletics, clubs, academics, and merchandise.
In a Howard University press release, Jordan Brand President Craig Williams said, “Howard University and Jordan Brand share a legacy of excellence and deep commitment to the Black Community. As an HBCU graduate, I understand the educational impact an institution like Howard University has. We are proud to partner with Howard University and see the growth in Black talent on the field and well beyond it.”
The Howard University Bison are moving on from their previous Under Armor apparel and will be unveiling their new threads on August 27th.
“We have always been proud of our legacy at Howard University, but we are audacious enough to believe our future could be brighter than our past. Partnering with Jordan Brand is another signal of our ambitions as a university to become an even brighter beacon for Black Excellence. We are thrilled to work on that vision of greatness together,” said Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, Howard University President.
Don’t miss the chance to see Howard University take on Morehouse in the upcoming HBCU New York Football Classic at MetLife Stadium.