The Worm Returns? Nike Air Worm Comeback Rumors Heat Up
Dennis Rodman’s Wild Nike Sneakers Might Be Coming Back—With a Twist!
The Chicago Bulls Changed Basketball and Shoes Forever
Back in the 1990s, the Chicago Bulls weren’t just winning championships—they were changing how basketball shoes looked and sold. Everyone knows Michael Jordan was the king of sneakers. But his teammates Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman also made huge splashes in the shoe world.
Fun Fact: Rodman didn’t just wear cool shoes—he was the show. His wild hair, tattoos, and personality made his sneakers just as unpredictable as he was.
Meet the "Air Worm NDestrukt"—Rodman’s Weirdest Shoe
One of Rodman’s most famous (and strangest) shoes was the Nike Air Worm NDestrukt. It came out in 1996 and looked like nothing else on the court.
What Made It So Wild?
- Low-top design – Years before low-tops were cool for basketball
- Metal zipper covering the laces – Like a jacket for your feet!
- Visible Air bubble – You could literally see the cushioning
- Aggressive rubber bottom – Built for serious grip
- Bulls colors – Black, white, and red
- Cartoon "Air Worm" logos – Because why not?
Important: Rodman hated these shoes. He had zero say in designing them, and they were so unpopular Nike eventually yanked them off store shelves.
The Big News: They Might Return in 2027!
Nike designer Frank Cooke recently posted old photos of the 1996 shoe on Instagram with just one word: "twist."
What We Know So Far
| Detail | Status |
|---|---|
| Official Nike announcement? | Not yet |
| Designer teasing return? | Yes (Frank Cooke) |
| "Air Worm" branding on heel? | Probably removed |
| Release timeline? | Rumored for 2027 |
Translation: Nike is thinking about bringing them back—but with changes. The goofy "Air Worm" cartoon might be gone.
Rodman & Nike: It’s Complicated
Their relationship has been a rollercoaster:
- 1996 – Nike makes NDestrukt without Rodman’s input → He hates it
- 1997 – Rodman leaves Nike for Converse (after just 6 months!)
- Years later – Rodman gets mad at Travis Scott for using a backward Swoosh (Rodman’s idea first)
- Recent – They make up! Rodman stars in a commercial for Travis Scott’s Jordan collab
Good news: Rodman and Nike are on speaking terms again. That makes a comeback way more likely.
Why Rodman’s Shoes Still Matter
Dennis Rodman wasn’t just a rebounding machine—he was a walking mystery. You never knew what hair color, outfit, or shoe he’d wear next. That "you can’t figure me out" vibe makes sneakerheads obsessed with his stuff decades later.
Whether it’s his Nike days or his Converse era, fans just want to celebrate "The Worm."
Summary: What You Need to Know
- 1990s Bulls = sneaker legends (Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman)
- Air Worm NDestrukt = Rodman’s weirdest, most hated shoe (1996)
- Rumor: Nike designer hints at 2027 return with a "twist"
- Change: Famous "Air Worm" cartoon branding likely removed
- Relationship: Rodman & Nike made up after years of beef
- Watch this space: Sports Illustrated’s Kicks On SI will have updates
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered
When exactly are these coming out?
Nobody knows for sure! Nike hasn’t announced anything official. The designer just teased it, and sneaker websites think 2027. Stay tuned.
Why did Rodman hate the original shoes?
He wasn’t involved in designing them. Imagine someone painting your portrait without asking—and making you look like a cartoon worm. Yeah, he wasn’t thrilled.
What’s the "twist" Frank Cooke mentioned?
Your guess is as good as ours! Could be new colors, new materials, removing the zipper, or totally new tech. The "Air Worm" branding on the heel is almost definitely gone.
Are Rodman’s Converse shoes coming back too?
The article mentions fans want both Nike and Converse Rodman shoes to return. But right now, only the Nike NDestrukt is being teased.
Where’s the best place to get updates?
Sports Illustrated’s Kicks On SI — they cover all NBA sneaker news and will definitely report on this if it happens.
Final thought: Dennis Rodman’s sneakers were as bold, weird, and unforgettable as the man himself. If these come back—even without the cartoon worm—they’ll sell out fast. Keep your eyes peeled!