Vintage Gear: Michael Jordan “Starting Lineup” Figurine – 1988

Back in 1988, toymaker Kenner debuted its Starting Lineup line of sports figures, which instantly took off in sales. The NBA wing of the line, for example, produced many of the best sellers with household names like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley and, yes, Mr. Michael Jordan. Here’s an unopened example of that first MJ figurine, showing Jordan in an uncommon pose of either reaching for a rebound or thinking about launching for a dunk. That’s where a kid’s imagination could really come into play. While the figurines weren’t posable the way a G.I. Joe would be, there was enough articulation to personalize and display how you wanted to. Starting Lineup production drew to a close in 2001 but many examples, especially from the late ’80s and early ’90s like this MJ, remain highly sought after and collectible.

Source: eBay seller james52411