5 Must-Know Facts About The Air Jordan 12 "Blueberry" 2024 Release: Price, Date, And The Flu Game Connection
The Air Jordan 12 "Blueberry" is set to be one of the most highly anticipated sneaker drops of the Holiday 2024 season, bringing a vibrant, fresh colorway to a championship-era classic. Sneakerheads and basketball fans alike are marking their calendars for this release, which offers a clean, versatile look anchored by a striking blue accent. The official release date is confirmed for December 18, 2024, positioning the "Blueberry" as a perfect late-year gift or a standout addition to any collection before the year ends. This particular retro release, officially known as the White/Black/Game Royal colorway, has garnered the "Blueberry" nickname due to the deep, rich blue hue that pops against the pristine white leather upper, immediately evoking a sense of nostalgia while feeling completely new.
As of December 23, 2025, all signs point to a major general release for this Air Jordan 12 Retro, ensuring that the legacy of Michael Jordan's twelfth signature shoe continues to thrive. The excitement surrounding the "Blueberry" is not just about the color, but about the model itself, which boasts a storied history tied to some of Michael Jordan's most legendary on-court moments and groundbreaking design innovations from the mind of Tinker Hatfield.
Air Jordan 12 "Blueberry" 2024 Release: Essential Purchase Details
The Air Jordan 12 Retro is a silhouette that commands attention, and the "Blueberry" colorway is poised to be a cornerstone of the Fall/Holiday 2024 lineup. Understanding the core details is crucial for securing a pair on release day.
- Official Nickname: "Blueberry"
- Official Colorway: White/Black/Game Royal (Some sources also refer to the blue as "Deep Royal Blue")
- SKU: CT8013-140 (Men's) and 153265-140 (Grade School)
- Release Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2024
- Retail Price (Men's): $210
- Retail Price (Grade School/GS): $150
- Availability: Select Jordan Brand retailers, Nike.com, and the SNKRS app
The Striking White and Game Royal Color Blocking
The aesthetic appeal of the "Blueberry" is rooted in its clean, two-tone color blocking, a signature element of the Air Jordan 12 design. The shoe features a crisp, white tumbled leather upper, which serves as a pristine base. This is dramatically contrasted by the mudguard, which wraps around the toe and side panels in a vibrant Game Royal blue (or Deep Royal Blue). This blue element is what gives the shoe its "Blueberry" moniker.
Black accents are strategically placed to provide depth and contrast, appearing on the outsole, the heel pull tab, and the Jumpman branding on the tongue and heel. The metal lace eyelets are often a point of luxury on the Air Jordan 12, and on the "Blueberry," they are expected to carry a metallic finish, further elevating the shoe's premium feel.
The Air Jordan 12: A Legacy of Championship Performance
To truly appreciate the "Blueberry" retro, one must understand the model's profound history. The Air Jordan 12 was a pivotal moment in the Air Jordan line, being the first shoe in the series to move away from the traditional Nike Swoosh branding and fully embrace the independent Jordan Brand identity.
Tinker Hatfield's Japanese Flag Inspiration
The distinctive design of the Air Jordan 12, with its stitched lines emanating from the center, was inspired by the Japanese flag, specifically the 'Rising Sun' motif. Designer Tinker Hatfield sought to create a silhouette that conveyed strength and durability, mirroring the intensity of Michael Jordan's game during the 1996-1997 NBA season. The asymmetrical stitching and paneling give the shoe a unique, almost boot-like construction, which was a significant departure from previous models.
The Air Jordan 12 was also a technological marvel for its time. It was the first Air Jordan to incorporate a full-length Zoom Air cushioning unit. This innovation provided superior responsiveness and court feel, setting a new standard for basketball performance footwear. The carbon fiber shank plate, visible on the outsole, added torsional rigidity and stability, cementing the shoe's status as a high-performance piece of equipment.
The Unbreakable "Flu Game" Connection
No discussion of the Air Jordan 12 is complete without mentioning the legendary "Flu Game." This historical context is vital to the shoe's topical authority and enduring appeal. The Air Jordan 12 was on Michael Jordan's feet during one of the most iconic and heroic performances in sports history.
Michael Jordan's Fifth Championship Run
Michael Jordan wore the Air Jordan 12 throughout the 1996-1997 NBA season, a year that culminated in his fifth NBA Championship with the Chicago Bulls. However, the most memorable moment came during Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. Despite suffering from what was officially described as a severe stomach virus (the "Flu Game"), Jordan played 44 minutes, scoring 38 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists, leading the Bulls to a crucial victory. He was visibly exhausted and dehydrated, often needing to be helped off the court, yet his sheer will powered the team. This game perfectly encapsulated the shoe's design philosophy of durability and unwavering performance under pressure.
While the original shoe worn during the Flu Game was the Black/Red colorway, the "Blueberry" retro taps into the same emotional connection to Jordan's championship pedigree and relentless spirit. Every Air Jordan 12, regardless of color, carries the DNA of that historic season.
Why The "Blueberry" is a Must-Cop for Holiday 2024
The Air Jordan 12 "Blueberry" (White/Game Royal) is more than just a sneaker; it's a piece of history re-imagined with a fresh, contemporary color palette. Its release on December 18, 2024, makes it a perfect anchor for the Holiday season, appealing to both the seasoned sneaker collector and the casual buyer looking for a stylish, high-quality shoe.
Topical Authority and Investment Value
Air Jordan 12 Retro releases, especially those with clean colorways and a strong connection to the original design, tend to hold their value well. The combination of the classic silhouette, the premium leather construction, and the striking Game Royal accents ensures that the "Blueberry" will be highly sought after. Its aesthetic versatility allows it to be paired with everything from winter streetwear to more tailored looks, adding to its long-term appeal and wearability.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Grade School (GS) sizing ensures that the entire family can participate in the release, broadening its market appeal and cultural footprint. Whether you are a fan of Tinker Hatfield's innovative design, a student of Michael Jordan's unparalleled career, or simply looking for one of the cleanest Jordan releases of 2024, the "Blueberry" Air Jordan 12 is a release that should not be missed.
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