Sneaker News Y’all know the rules: the Summer season doesn’t officially start until Jordan Brand releases an Air Jordan 11 Low, and in 2026, they’re bringing back a fan-favorite that first paved the way back in 2001. On April 18th, 2026, the Jumpman will officially bring back the Air Jordan 11 Low “UNC”, further adding to stacked yet of Jordan releases for 2026.
Originally releasing in 2001, this Air Jordan 11 Low colorway is inspired by Michael Jordan’s connection to the University of North Carolina. MJ played his collegiate basketball for the UNC Tar Heels, winning a National Championship in 1982. Throughout the Air Jordan legacy, this specific shade of blue known as University Blue has been a commonly occurring theme in his footwear. While not the first to do it, this Air Jordan 11 Low release is among the most recognizable in history.
The Air Jordan 11 itself debuted in 1995. Michael Jordan had come out of retirement towards the end of the 1994-1995 season, re-joining the Chicago Bulls just before the Playoffs began. During that postseason, MJ switched out of his Air Jordan 10 and moved up to the Air Jordan 11 for the first time. The Air Jordan 11 ended up being the most popular Air Jordan model for a very long time.
The Air Jordan 11 Low, however, did not become available to the public until 2001. Jordan Brand released this UNC blue version as well as a red version that many refer to as the “Cherry” colorway. While neither pair are considered an “OG” in that it was not released during the model’s original run, the Air Jordan 11 Low “UNC” is still considered with that same esteem.
Again, a return is expected next year with a tentative date for April 18th, 2026, according to @zsneakerheadz. Pictured below is the 2017 release of the shoes; although from a different year, these are an accurate depiction of what to expect.
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