Before Michael Jordan became a 6x time NBA champion and global icon, he was a Tar Heel. His time at the University of North Carolina laid the foundation for everything that followed.
The game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA championship game announced his arrival on the biggest stage. That Carolina blue jersey became part of basketball history.
Over the decades, Jordan Brand has paid tribute to MJ's college roots with countless releases. From classic Air Jordan 1s to modern interpretations across the entire signature line, Carolina blue remains one of the most beloved colorways.
These sneakers connect directly to where his legend began. Some releases have subtle blue accents while others go all-in with a bold university blue look. Here's our ranking of the best North Carolina blue Air Jordan releases of all time:
10. Air Jordan 13 "Black University Blue"
The Air Jordan 13 "Black University Blue" rounds out our top 10 with a sleek, modern take on Carolina blue. This colorway features a predominantly black mesh upper with university blue accents throughout.
The heel and midsole incorporate the signature blue shade that connects it to UNC's legacy. Released as part of Jordan Brand's ongoing tribute to MJ's college roots, this sneaker stands out for its darker aesthetic.
The black and blue combination offers versatility that works both on and off the court. The holographic eye detail remains a signature feature of the Air Jordan 13 silhouette.
This colorway proves that Carolina blue doesn't always need to dominate the upper to make an impact. It's a contemporary addition to the UNC-inspired lineup that appeals to fans of subtler colorways.
9. Air Jordan 12 "Grey University Blue"
The Air Jordan 12 "Grey University Blue" brings a sophisticated color palette to the rankings at number nine. This release features a wolf grey leather upper that provides a neutral foundation for the Carolina blue accents.
University blue hits appear on the heel tab and midsole, creating strategic pops of color. The grey and blue combination offers a more understated approach to the UNC theme. The Air Jordan 12's premium leather construction shines through on this release.
The textured leather panels and smooth overlays create a luxurious feel. This colorway works perfectly for those who want UNC DNA without an overwhelming blue presence.
The grey base makes the university blue details stand out even more. It's a refined take on Carolina blue that ranks among the most wearable options.
8. Air Jordan 6 "UNC"
The Air Jordan 6 "UNC" sits at number eight and represents a perfect marriage of silhouette and school pride. Released in 2017, this sneaker features a white leather base with university blue accents on key panels.
The blue hits appear on the heel tab, midsole, and lace locks, creating balanced visual appeal. The Air Jordan 6's iconic design language translates beautifully to the UNC color scheme. That netting on the side panels and tongue adds texture while maintaining the clean aesthetic.
The icy blue outsole ties the entire colorway together seamlessly. This release proved that the Air Jordan 6 silhouette works exceptionally well with Carolina blue.
It became an instant favorite among UNC fans and Jordan collectors alike. The combination of premium materials and school colors makes this a great release.
7. Air Jordan 5 Retro "UNC"
Coming in at number seven is the Air Jordan 5 Retro "UNC," a true gem in the Carolina blue collection. This 2017 release features full university blue material across the entire upper for maximum impact.
The tonal blue approach creates a cohesive look that's become increasingly rare in modern releases. Black midsole accents and a reflective tongue provide subtle contrast to the blue construction.
The Air Jordan 5's fighter jet-inspired design details shine through in this colorway. The shark tooth detailing on the midsole adds aggressive styling to the smooth blue upper. This is one of the boldest UNC-themed releases Jordan Brand has ever produced.
The monochromatic blue upper makes an undeniable statement. It ranks highly because it fully commits to the Carolina blue aesthetic without hesitation.
6. Air Jordan 9 "University Blue"
The Air Jordan 9 "University Blue" earns the sixth spot with its clean, balanced design. This release features a white leather upper with black and university blue accents throughout. The blue appears prominently on the midsole, inner lining, and signature heel pull tab.
The Air Jordan 9's globe-inspired design elements remain intact on this UNC tribute. Black detailing provides a strong contrast that makes the blue and white pop even more. The combination of three colors creates a more dynamic look than simpler two-tone releases.
This colorway was released in 2016 and quickly became a fan favorite. The Air Jordan 9 silhouette doesn't get as much UNC love as other models. This makes the University Blue version even more special for collectors seeking something different
5. Air Jordan 4 Retro "University Blue"
The Air Jordan 4 Retro "University Blue" claims the fifth spot as a modern classic. Released in 2021, this colorway features a full university blue suede upper that commands attention.
The blue completely covers the base, side panels, and heel for a cohesive presentation. Grey cement detailing on the midsole and heel provides texture and vintage appeal. Black accents on the midsole, eyelets, and Jumpman logo create necessary contrast.
The Air Jordan 4's iconic design translates beautifully to the all-blue treatment. This release generated massive hype and sold out instantly upon its debut.
The quality of the blue suede exceeded expectations and justified the excitement. It's a top-5 shoe because it balances heritage design with modern execution perfectly.
4. Air Jordan 11 Retro Low "University Blue"
At number four sits the Air Jordan 11 Retro Low "University Blue," a spring staple. This low-top version features crisp white leather paired with university blue patent leather.
The Carolina blue patent mudguard is the defining element of this clean colorway. The Air Jordan 11 Low silhouette perfectly captures the essence of UNC's colors.
White mesh and patent leather create a fresh, summery aesthetic that works year-round. The icy blue outsole ties together the blue and white color story. Released as part of Jordan Brand's spring lineup, this sneaker became an instant hit.
The low-cut version offers versatility that the high-top can't always provide. It's a top-tier UNC release that belongs in every Carolina blue collection.
3. Air Jordan 1 High "UNC Toe"
The Air Jordan 1 High "UNC Toe" takes the bronze medal at number three. This 2019 release reimagined the classic UNC blocking with a bold twist.
Instead of the traditional white toe box, this version features university blue on the toe. The reversed blocking creates a more aggressive, eye-catching look than the standard UNC colorway. White leather forms the mid-panel and collar, while black appears on the swoosh and ankle.
This color-blocking variation proved that you can innovate on a classic template successfully. The UNC Toe became one of the most sought-after Air Jordan 1 releases of 2019.
It offers something different for collectors who already own the traditional UNC version. The creative blocking choice is exactly why this sneaker ranks so highly.
2. Air Jordan 3 "UNC"
The Air Jordan 3 "UNC" earns the runner-up as a near-perfect execution. Released in 2020, this sneaker brought Carolina blue to one of Jordan's most iconic silhouettes.
The white leather base provides the perfect canvas for university blue elephant print overlays. Blue appears on the signature elephant print, heel tab, midsole, and eyelets throughout the shoe. The cement print in Carolina blue is what makes this release truly special.
Tinker Hatfield's legendary Air Jordan 3 design shines in the UNC color scheme. The combination of premium leather and bold blue elephant print creates a stunning visual contrast.
This release represents everything great about UNC-themed Air Jordans done right. It's the second-best Carolina blue Jordan because it honors both MJ's college and the silhouette perfectly.
1. Air Jordan 1 High "UNC"
The Air Jordan 1 High "UNC" reigns supreme as the greatest Carolina blue Air Jordan ever created. This colorway has been released multiple times since its original debut, with the 2015 version being the most iconic.
The white leather base, combined with university blue overlays, creates timeless, perfect color blocking. Black accents on the swoosh, collar, and sole provide just enough contrast. This is the sneaker that started the entire UNC Air Jordan movement.
The Air Jordan 1's simple, clean silhouette lets the Carolina blue shine without distraction. Every retro release of this colorway sells out immediately and commands premium resale prices.
It represents Michael Jordan's roots at the University of North Carolina better than any other sneaker. The "UNC" Air Jordan 1 High is the undisputed king of Carolina blue Jordans.
