The 90s are ranked as arguably the greatest decade that ever was or ever will be. Part of the spectacle was the pinnacle of basketball culture led by the most prominent athlete of all time – Michael Jordan – who revolutionized the game in countless ways.
And now Jordan’s son Jeffrey is following in his footsteps by redefining the art the business of basketball.
Jeffrey is the one co-founder of HEIR, which is hosting a venture in Atlanta next month featuring some of the best high school basketball players from around the country. It is a two-on-two tournament called NFT JAM, which is based on the smash hit arcade games NBA Jam and puts a modern Web 3.0 spin on it.
Here’s what Jeffrey Jordan had to say about his new project in an exclusive interview with USA TODAY High School Sports.
Obviously NBA Jam is an inspiration, but where did the idea for NFT JAM come from?
Geoffrey: Our team wanted to find a unique way to bring together basketball culture and Web3 while educating the next generation about the Web3 space.
NFT JAM is a concept that has never been done before. It’s a two-day experience that will see 18 of the best high school student athletes come to Atlanta for both educational Web3 workshops and an innovative, unique and competitive basketball tournament.
As high school leavers, we want to give them the Web3 tools they need to own their digital brands and engage with Web3 communities. The NFT JAM tournament is inspired by the 90s basketball culture and the iconic NBA JAM video games. We have created this unique 2 vs. 2 full court format that will showcase future stars in an environment that fans have never seen before.
Can you give some names of players who will participate?
What is the prize for the tournament winners?
Geoffrey: This year, the winning team will be able to claim bragging rights as the first ever NFT JAM champions. As an annual experience, we will continue to develop and expand the tournament and offer unique and innovative approaches to reward the winning team.
Why did you choose to do the event in Atlanta?
Geoffrey: Atlanta has a history of basketball and continues to be a hub for both business and culture. HEIR also has community members based in Atlanta (Anthony Edwards, who is from ATL, recently partnered with HEIR for a member experience as well).
Can you tell me a little more about Web23 House?
Geoffrey: Web23 House is an extensive day of Web3 programming for all 18 participating student-athletes. Each player partners with HEIR as part of our NIL and Brand Ambassador Program. At Web23 House, student-athletes will be provided with Web3 educational resources and workshops. Players will be part of the NFT Jam experience on the HEIR platform and their membership card will provide rewards including members-only content, signed memorabilia, giveaways and event access at the NFT JAM tournament.
