First Look At The Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” (2025)

An unforgettable moment in Jordan lore.

Sneaker News January 3, 2025

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The iconic Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” is indeed dropping this year, contributing to a mammoth list of new Jordans releasing in 2025. After some back-and-forth reports last summer, the Flu Games 12s will be hitting stores this year. Here’s a first look at the 2025 release, as well as everything you need to know.

Pictured below is a first look at the Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game”; as you can see, not much has changed from the original release, which is exactly what Jordan fans want. True shape, colors, and materials are the only required ingredients; the legend itself does the talking. Currently, a release date for the Flu Games have not yet been confirmed.

: Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” @xcsnkr

: Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” @xcsnkr

: Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” @xcsnkr

: Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” @xcsnkr

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A History Of The Flu Game

The actual “Flu Game” came during Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals. Michael Jordan was clearly ill during the game as he needed help even walking to the bench during game stoppage. He was regularly seen taking rest, bent over and holding himself up bent over and propping himself up by his knees. On the bench, he had a towel over his head, desperately drinking Gatorade to replenish much-needed fluids.

Legend has it, Jordan had some food poisoning the night before via some tainted pizza that was delivered to the hotel from a local joint. Other rumors point to MJ’s gambling habit as the culprit for what was more of a hangover than a flu. Only Jordan knows the real story, but what the public witnessed was 38 points, 7 boards, 5 assists, 3 steals in a close Game 5 win.

He wore the black/red Air Jordan 12 during the game; those shoes would live on in infamy.

Jordan 12 Flu Game Release History

The Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” originally released in 1997. The first-ever Retro release arrived in 2003 in true form. In 2009, Jordan Brand injected so storytelling into the design, changing the upper to suede and adding some emoji-like details that reflected MJ’s illness. The last known release came in 2016.

Where To Buy The Flu Game 12s

The Flu Games are releasing in 2025. As of January 2025, a firm release date has not yet been revealed. The shoes will be available on SNKRS and Jordan retailers globally in full family sizes.