The Jordan Decision: 3 Ministry Lessons from Nike’s Greatest Risk
In 1984, Nike made a risky decision. They signed a rookie basketball player named Michael Jordan to a $250,000 endorsement deal—more than they’d ever offered a single athlete.
At the time, Nike wasn’t the powerhouse it is today. Converse and Adidas dominated the basketball scene. Jordan didn’t even want to sign with Nike. He preferred Adidas. But Nike bet on his potential—and the rest is history.
That one decision didn’t just change Nike.
It redefined athlete endorsements.
It birthed a global brand.
It launched a cultural icon.
And it taught us something we all need to hear:
One bold decision can change everything.
And church leaders? That lesson is for us too.
Whether you’re pastoring a large church or leading a small group, God often asks us to lead by faith, not formula—to see what others don’t see, and act before the results are guaranteed.
Here are 3 ministry-changing lessons from Nike’s bet on Michael Jordan—and how you can apply them today.
Full disclosure: I am a Nike and Michael Jordan fan. Shirts, shorts, socks, and shoes. I buy them. I wear them.
Ok, let’s get to work. Let’s unpack this.
1. Bet on People Before They “Arrive”
Nike signed Jordan before he became “Air Jordan.”
Before the MVP awards.
Before the championships.
Before the buzzer-beaters.
They saw something in him that others didn’t. They bet on potential, not proof.
That’s your call as a church leader too.
The kingdom isn’t built on polished resumes. It’s built on overlooked shepherds, fishermen, tax collectors—and yes, even rookies.
How many “Michael Jordans” are sitting in your pews, waiting to be seen? Waiting to serve?
The young leader with raw communication skills but a teachable heart.
The single mom with natural pastoral instincts and a gift for encouragement.
The quiet introvert who knows how to organize chaos better than your whole team.
Jesus saw people before the world did.
He called Peter while he was still unpredictable.
He entrusted John while he was still emotional.
He loved Thomas even through doubt.
Bet on potential. Develop people now.
Don’t wait until someone is conference-ready to invest in them.
2. Take Strategic Risks, Not Just Safe Steps
Nike’s move wasn’t just big—it was unprecedented.
They offered Jordan a signature shoe (Air Jordan) before he’d ever played an NBA game.
No one was doing that.
It was a massive risk.
But here’s the key: it was a strategic one.
They studied Jordan’s charisma, playing style, and marketing potential. Then they aligned their risk with that vision.
Churches often lean safe.
We wait until giving increases before hiring staff.
We delay new ministries until we can “guarantee” volunteers.
We resist new models because we’re afraid of backlash.
But faith-filled leadership isn’t afraid to step first.
There’s a difference between being reckless and being responsive.
One is driven by ego. The other is anchored in vision.
Ask yourself:
What risk are you avoiding out of fear?
What ministry opportunity is waiting for your faith?
Whether it’s planting a campus, launching a new outreach, or empowering new leaders, the future is unlocked by Spirit-led boldness.
3. One Decision Can Reshape the Future
Nike’s decision didn’t just impact their revenue.
It redefined their entire brand.
Before Jordan, Nike was a running shoe company struggling in the basketball space.
After Jordan? They became synonymous with greatness.
One bold move—aligned with the right person—changed the trajectory forever.
In ministry, the same principle applies.
One decision to hire a leader with vision.
One shift toward outreach instead of comfort.
One commitment to prioritize discipleship over attendance.
These moments mark you.
Think of:
The first time you launched a major initiative with no clear funding.
The leader you mentored who now pastors a church.
The prayer meeting that turned into a revival.
Often, we think transformation comes in big waves. But more often, it comes through a series of faithful yeses.
You never know what’s on the other side of your obedience.
The Real Jordan Move? Obedience.
Let’s be honest: Nike didn’t know Michael Jordan would become MJ or #23.
They had confidence. But they couldn’t predict the future.
Neither can we.
But that’s the beauty of kingdom leadership.
We don’t need to see it all.
We just need to follow the voice of the One who does.
Your “Jordan moment” might not come with applause.
It might look like a late-night phone call, a risky hire, or a church plant in a neighborhood no one wants to go.
But when you bet on the right things: people, purpose, and God’s presence, you win. Every time.
What Will Your Bold Decision Be?
You don’t need Nike’s budget (Nike didn’t always have Nike’s budget) to build something world-changing.
You need vision, faith, and the courage to move.
So here’s the question:
What’s your next bold, Spirit-led move?
Who do you need to bet on?
What do you need to risk?
What decision have you been delaying?
The future of your church doesn’t hinge on a logo, a special service, or a launch event.
It hinges on your yes.
Your Move
If you’re ready to move from playing it safe to leading with courage, I’m here to coach you through it.
✅ I help pastors design strategies that work.
✅ Implement systems that last.
✅ And develop leaders with a heart for people.
Let’s turn your next decision into your best one.
Schedule a free discovery call today.
Visit ericvhampton.com to start the conversation.
See you next Saturday!
Eric V Hampton