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1. 1984
Key Players: Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley and Hakeem Olajuwon
The 1984 NBA Draft Class was deep and decorated enough to get its own TV special. The class birthed the greatest basketball player to ever play the game and the greatest signature sneaker line to ever hit stores. While Michael Jordan’s footwear legacy could compete on its own, Hakeem Olajwon and Charles Barkley add acclaim to MJ’s accolades. Olajuwon endorsed everything from Etonic to LA Gear, eventually bringing signature sneakers to the economy price point with Spalding. Charles Barkley sits right next to MJ as one of the most important Nike athletes ever, championing the Force camp and his own CB series.
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Photos via Basket Session, Zimbio, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, Dallas Observer, Turner, Bleacher Report, NBA, USA Today, Sole Collector and Getty Images
