Back in the time when Michael Jordan dominated the basketball court, people were calling it ‘illegal’ to play with such an advantage.
However, recent findings from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, or DHS hints something else illegal was going along with the Jordan name.
The Trump Administration is currently utilizing the Alien Enemies Act to deport individuals suspected of their affiliation with the Tren de Aragua gang, a Venezuelan criminal organization.
In recent legal proceedings, the ACLU presented documents that specify the identification of these individuals based on certain apparel and tattoos. According to the reports, particularly Chicago Bulls jerseys, Jordan Brand sneakers, and tattoos featuring the Jumpman logo.
A video emerged from El Salvador showing a deported person with such a tattoo, further highlighting this identification method.
A document from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security indicates that Chicago Bulls jerseys and Jordan Brand tattoos or shoes can “help identify” members of a Venezuelan gang, per @Sportico
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 2, 2025
“Neither the Chicago Bulls nor Nike have publicly commented on a document, released… pic.twitter.com/4IUvqWtftI
The HS Investigations’ referenced document contains characteristics intended to assist law enforcement in identifying potential gang members. It indicates a preference among them for Chicago Bulls jerseys, especially those linked to Michael Jordan and specific Jordan shoes.
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However, experts have raised some concerns regarding this methodology. Bill Hing, a law professor at the University of San Francisco, criticized the approach as erroneous.
According to him, possessing a Michael Jordan tattoo does not inherently signify gang affiliation. Additionally, comments from the U.S. Border Patrol suggest that while Bulls attire may be a part of Venezuelan culture, it is not a reliable indicator of gang membership.
Also Read: LeBron James Drops A Giant Truth Bomb On His Strange Relationship With Michael Jordan
NBA Fans Are Losing Over Chicago Bulls Jersey And Jordan Shoes’ Link With Venezuelan Gang
While the investigations and findings still need some credible and validated data, identifying just with the Bulls and Jordan logos is tough. However, ever since the news went public, basketball fans are left in disbelief.
“I don’t even know how you react to this if you’re Jordan Brand/Nike. The broadness of this statement is ridiculous,” a fan commented.
I don’t even know how you react to this if you’re Jordan Brand/Nike. The broadness of this statement is ridiculous. 😂
— Daren (@Not24HRS) April 2, 2025
“No way! Imagine simply having a Jordan logo tattoo and they think you’re in a gang,” another fan wrote.
No way! Imagine simply having a Jordan logo tattoo and they think you’re in a gang. 😂🤣
— Julio Murillo (@JEM_el_tarasco) April 2, 2025
“We’re really living in the dumbest possible timeline,” a fan blasted.
We’re really living in the dumbest possible timeline
— Ross Pins (@chisportsross) April 2, 2025
“Why would Nike or the Bulls have any statement about this? They aren’t responsible for what people wearing their merch do,” another fan clarified.
Why would Nike or the Bulls have any statement about this? They aren’t responsible for what people wearing their merch do.
— Bulldog1205 (@bulldog1205) April 2, 2025
“This like askin the Seattle mariners for their thoughts on the Rollin 60s,” joked another fan.
This like askin the Seattle mariners for their thoughts on the rollin 60s
— kr ☁️ (@kwae_fly) April 2, 2025
Despite this scrutiny, the Chicago Bulls organization and Jordan Brand have not publicly responded to the situation. According to sales data, the Bulls ranked fifth in merchandise sales among NBA teams, trailing franchises like the Celtics and Lakers.
Also Read: Michael Jordan’s Close Friend Reveals What The Bulls Legend Really Thinks About LeBron James
