Air Jordan 12 “Melo” Returns May 2025

The Air Jordan 12 “Melo” will return to retailers in 2025. Initially released for Carmelo Anthony when he played for the Denver Nuggets, the pair will retail for $200 when it returns on May 17, 2025.

As we take a break from reporting on original colorways and collaborations returning in 2025, Jordan Brand will go back to the early 2000s and launch the “Melo” Air Jordan 12. This release will help expand on Jordan Brand’s revival of the older non-original pairs.

Before Carmelo Anthony had a signature shoe with Jordan Brand, he was spotted wearing retro Air Jordans. Some of the more common iterations were the Air Jordan 2 and the Air Jordan 12, which were dressed in Home and Away Denver Nuggets blocking.

In 2004, Jordan Brand launched the AJ 12 with a theme similar to Carmelo’s PE, resulting in the “Melo” nickname. However, upon its initial debut, the shoes were available exclusively in women’s sizing, which caused a backlash from fans. Not long after, JB would eventually rerelease the shoes, but this time in men’s sizing.

In 2016, the brand launched the “University Blue” Air Jordan 12, which had almost the same blocking. However, the shade of Blue was slightly brighter, and Metallic Gold was used on the top eyelets. This pair was available in kids sizing.

Dressed in a White, University Blue, and Metallic Silver color combination. This pair will feature White leather with University Blue details on the heel, liner, lower part of the midsole, and rubber outsole. Lastly, Metallic Silver appears on the top eyelets. Like the original pair, the 2025 release has no “Melo” branding.

Air Jordan 12 Melo 2025 Release Date

The Air Jordan 12 “Melo” will be released on May 17th, 2025, at select Jordan Brand retailers and online via Nike.com. The retail price is $200. Once we have more details, we will update you. For now, check out more photos of the 2004 pair below.

The “Melo” Air Jordan 12 return in the Summer of 2025 brings a nostalgic revival of a classic silhouette tied to Carmelo Anthony’s tenure with the Denver Nuggets. Originally designed as a player exclusive, this release allows fans and collectors to revisit a piece of basketball history. Priced at $200, the reissue retains its iconic design elements, appealing to sneaker enthusiasts and fans of Carmelo Anthony’s legacy in the NBA.

Visit our Air Jordan Release Dates page for more upcoming drops from the brand.

Update (9/29/24): The “Melo” Jordan 12 was expected to be released on April 5, 2025. However, the new date is May 17, 2025.

The information is in collaboration with zsneakerheadz.

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