According to sources close to Jordan, the six-time NBA champion was growing increasingly frustrated with Nike’s recent efforts to align itself with progressive social causes, including its decision to feature controversial activist Colin Kaepernick in a recent ad campaign.

In a statement released by his publicist, Jordan stated: “I have been with Nike since the beginning, and I have always believed in the power of its brand.

But I can no longer support the company’s recent direction. Nike has lost its focus on what matters most – making great products that people love. Instead, it has become more concerned with virtue signaling and political correctness.”

Jordan’s departure is already having a major impact on Nike’s bottom line. In the wake of his announcement, the company’s stock price dropped by more than 5%, wiping out billions of dollars in market value.

But the biggest blow to Nike may be the loss of the Air Jordan brand, which has been a cornerstone of the company’s product line for decades.

According to insiders, Jordan has decided to take the Air Jordan trademark with him, meaning that Nike will no longer be able to produce or sell the iconic sneaker.

“I can confirm that Michael Jordan is no longer associated with Nike in any way, shape, or form,” said a spokesperson for Jordan.

“He has decided to take the Air Jordan brand with him, and he intends to explore other opportunities in the sports and fashion world.”

For Nike, the loss of Michael Jordan and the Air Jordan brand represents a major setback. But for Jordan, it is a chance to chart a new course, free from the constraints of a company that he believes has lost its way.

“I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead,” Jordan said in his statement. “I will always be grateful for my time at Nike, but now it is time to move on and focus on what really matters – creating great products that people love.”