The phrase “flu game 12” captures the creativeness of sneaker fans, basketball fans, and pop culture fans alike. Behind it lies a tale of grit, records, hype, and design. In this text, I’ll destroy down what “flu sport 12” means, its origin, evolutions, how collectors approach it, and what to watch out for.
What Is “Flu Game 12”?
To apprehend “flu game 12,” we need to unpack the two parts:
- “Flu sport” refers to a mythical performance by way of Michael Jordan in recreation 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, when he performed notwithstanding scuffling with flu‑like signs and introduced an iconic recreation.
- “12” refers to the shoe model: the Air Jordan 12.
For this reason, “flu game 12” typically refers to the Air Jordan 12 sneaker released inside the “Flu sport” colorway, or the versions and reissues of that model.
Over the years, exceptional retros of the Air Jordan 12 “Flu recreation” have dropped (as an instance in 2016, and extra these days in 2025)
Historical Background & Legacy
The Legendary Game
- Within the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan fell ill however nevertheless performed sport 5 in place of the Utah Jazz.
- In spite of his situation, he scored 38 factors, grabbed 7 rebounds, added 5 assists, and made important plays to persuade the Bulls to victory.
- This performance, in the face of adversity, embedded the call “Flu game” into basketball lore.
The Shoes & Their Significance
- Jordan wore black-and-crimson Air Jordan 12s in some unspecified time in the future of that recreation. That colorway became for all time tied to the instant.
- Over the years, that pair (or similar ones) got here to be called the Flu sport 12s or really “Flu sport 12.”
The original pair once even fetched big sums at public sale:
– The shoes were given to a ball boy from the Utah Jazz (Preston Truman) after the game.
- They were stored in a financial institution vault for years and later bought at auction for over USD 104,000, and then again in 2023 for USD 1.38 million.
Design & Features of the Flu Game 12
Color Scheme & Materials
The Flu recreation 12 is known for:
- A black tumbled leather higher
- Varsity red accents at the mudguard and outsole
- Lizard‑textured overlays on a few variations
- Silver or metal eyelets and information
Technology & Comfort
Modern reissues comprise upgraded tech:
- Zoom Air cushioning
- Phylon midsoles
- Carbon fiber shank plates
Those factors assist the shoe stay wearable even decades after its beginning.
How Collectors Approach “Flu Game 12”
Why They Want It
- Ancient importance – it ties to one in all Jordan’s maximum well-known games
- Visual appeal – classic black + crimson is undying
- Collectability – constrained drops, resale price, and hype cycles
What They Check Before Buying
- Authenticity: Take a look at stitching, leather texture, serial numbers, trademarks
- Situation: Present day (deadstock), lightly used, or antique
- Color accuracy: Some reissues have moderate shifts in tone
- Release batch / 12 months: Later fashions might differ in materials or tech
- Fee vs resale: Once in a while paying premium for uncommon sizes
Popular Batches & Versions
- Sneaker communities regularly debate which batch is best, which include the “DGC batch” inside the rep space
- For proper releases, later retros (2025) are in high call for
How to Buy a Flu Game 12: Step by Step
If you need to get a couple (proper) legally, here’s what to do:
Stay updated on release dates
Comply with professional Nike or Jordan logo bulletins. as an example, the 2025 reissue was set for March 1.
Register for raffles or SNKRS drops
Many pairs go via raffle or limited online drops to avoid mass bot buying.
Choose reliable retailers
Nike.com, SNKRS, authorized Jordan shops are more secure bets.
Inspect on arrival
Check box labels, shoe tags, leather great, and sewing.
Hold or resell wisely
You may put on them or maintain until call for grows and resale value will increase.
Use authentication (if buying secondary market)
Apps or third‑party celebration services can help.
Tips & Precautions
- Be wary of counterfeits: Flu recreation 12s are frequently replicated due to their popularity.
- Keep away from trusting random on-line dealers with out evidence.
- Understand shipping & customs if ordering the world over.
- Preserve receipts and boxes — for resale or destiny valuation, full kits add price.
- Don’t overpay — every now and then the hype pushes fees too excessive.
FAQs
Q1: Why is it called “Flu Game 12”?
Because “Flu sport” refers to MJ’s unwell performance in 1997, and “12” refers back to the Air Jordan 12 model.
Q2: When was the first Flu Game 12 released for sale?
Retros of Flu sport 12 were launched from around 2016 onward. The authentic turned into simply the pair Michael Jordan wore throughout the game.
Q3: How much did the original sneakers sell for?
In 2013, they fetched around USD 104,765. Later in 2023 they offered for USD 1.38 million.
Q4: What’s the 2025 version like?
The 2025 Air Jordan 12 retro “Flu recreation” comes with black leather, varsity purple accents, Zoom Air cushioning, and updated tech for consolation and durability.
Q5: Are there fake versions in the market?
Yes — many replicas exist. Always purchase from relied on resources and authenticate earlier than price.
Conclusion
The “Flu Game 12” is extra than only a sneaker — it’s a image of perseverance, an artifact of sports records, and a crown jewel in sneaker culture. From its roots in Michael Jordan’s battlefield performance to its lengthy afterlife via retro releases and collector fervor, its legacy continues to energize both enthusiasts of basketball and style alike.
