Jordan Brand Throws the Night's Hottest Event in Hollywood To Commemorate Carmelo Anthony's Fifth Signature Shoe

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Nov 21, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Last night, celebrities, artists and professional athletes came together to celebrate basketball All-Star and Gold Medal Olympian Carmelo Anthony and Jordan Brand's launch of the Jordan Melo M5 basketball shoe. Jordan Brand, a division of NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE), celebrated the memorable event in honor of the talented basketball star at the popular Siren Studios in Hollywood, California.

The star-studded, black-carpet event replicated a modern art gallery opening, complete with unique images of Carmelo's daily life off the court. The photographs included candid imagery of Carmelo taking breaks between games, interacting with his fans and just enjoying life.

The launch event brought out celebrities from all genres including Mena Suvari, Ciara, Khloe Kardashian, Shenae Grimes, Pooch Hall, Tyrese Gibson, Evan Ross and Mekhi Phifer. Attendees also included some of the best athletes such as Kenyon Martin, Chauncey Billups and J.R. Smith who mingled and enjoyed some of the top music hits spun by DJ AM.

"Tonight's event means a lot to me because the M5 is my fifth shoe and any time you can be associated with a brand like Jordan it's special. The shoe fits me and my game so well and it's my favorite shoe of them all since I've been a part of the process since day one."

The Jordan Melo M5's design complements all five positions on the basketball court. Weighing in at only 15 ounces, its light weight allows for point-guard-like quickness; its natural flexibility ensures quick transitioning for shooting guards; a molded heel counter and inner collar padding create a superior fit for any small forward; heel and forefoot Zoom Air give a power forward advanced cushioning; and centers will appreciate the added support and stability the shank plate and outsole offer for the physical low-post game.

The Jordan Melo M5 shoe launches nationwide on Saturday, November 22, 2008 with a suggested retail price of $125. Retailer information is available at www.Jumpman23.com.

About Jordan Brand

A division of NIKE, Inc., Jordan Brand is a premium brand of footwear, apparel and accessories inspired by the dynamic legacy, vision and direct involvement of Michael Jordan. The Jordan Brand made its debut in 1997 and has grown into a complete collection of performance and lifestyle products for both men and women. The Jordan Brand remains active in the community by donating a portion of its proceeds to Jordan Fundamentals, an education grants program for teachers.

For more information on Jordan Brand, visit www.Jumpman23.com.

SOURCE: Jordan Brand
Jordan Brand
Terri Hines
503.532.5862
Terri.Hines@NIKE.com
or
Dinusha Gooneratne
503.671.3117
Dinusha.Gooneratne@NIKE.com