Magic Johnson’s Impact on Jason Mayden’s Entrepreneurship

From starting his first business at age 10 to leading design at Jordan Brand and founding his own company, Jason Mayden has always been driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. Along the way, he’s had the chance to learn from some of the biggest names in sports and business, including basketball legend Magic Johnson, who was an investor in Mayden’s former company, Super Heroic.

From Intern to Chief Design Officer

Mayden’s journey in the footwear industry is a full-circle story. His early entrepreneurial ventures, like creating a Michael Jordan basketball card collection, foreshadowed his eventual career. He began as an intern at Jordan Brand in 2000 and, after building extensive experience at Nike, returned in 2024 as its Chief Design Officer. His time at Nike included roles as a senior product designer and director of innovation.

His transition to Jordan Brand in 2012 was pivotal. Working under President Larry Miller, Mayden gained invaluable insights into strategy, operations, and finance. He saw how these elements, combined with a passion for product, were crucial for scaling a brand from hundreds of millions to billions in revenue.

Mentors Who Saw the Founder Within

Both Larry Miller and Nike co-founder Phil Knight played significant roles in shaping Mayden’s understanding of his own potential. Miller, a Black man from humble beginnings who achieved success in the industry, served as a powerful reminder that Mayden could be himself and thrive. Knight, with his deep love for product and vision for serving world-class athletes, inspired Mayden’s dedication.

Mayden recalled regularly sharing his ideas with President Miller, who eventually labeled him a “founder.” Hearing this from both Miller and Phil Knight was a profound affirmation, solidifying his belief that he was destined to build something significant. “You’re a founder. You will build something someday,” they told him, words that deeply resonated.

Super Heroic: Inspiring the Next Generation

In 2016, Mayden launched Super Heroic, a children’s brand inspired by his son’s health challenges. Recognizing the critical importance of mental health for young people, each shoe came with a cape, symbolizing self-efficacy and the power of imagination. The company successfully raised $10.3 million in funding, with Magic Johnson among its investors.

Mayden led Super Heroic through its exit during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared how working with Magic Johnson taught him a valuable lesson: “you’re not bound by the labels placed on you.” Johnson’s transition from celebrated athlete to renowned entrepreneur exemplified this, inspiring Mayden to embrace his own multifaceted identity.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

The joy Mayden derives from Super Heroic’s legacy is palpable. He cherishes the letters he still receives from former customers who, now in college, remember the brand fondly. “Because that, to me, that’s legacy,” he stated, highlighting the lasting impact of inspiring a generation. Mayden shared these extensive experiences and lessons at the AFROTECH™ Conference 2025.