Was it the shoes that helped MJ extend his career? Yeah

Michael Jordan credits the invention and use of the carbon fiber shank plate in his shoes for prolonging his basketball career and helping him avoid any serious injuries. The Air Jordan XI (the one with the shiny patent leather) was the first Air Jordan shoe to have a carbon fiber shank plate. The carbon fiber shank plate took pressure off his knees and arches, which is why MJ insists on having some form of shank plate in his shoes even to this day.