Michael Jordan is "robbing the hood" and doesn't care that "kids [are] dying for shoes," according to former NBA player Stephon Marbury.
Marbury, an old adversary of Jordan's, criticised the Nike Jordan shoe range on Twitter, which can cost between $70-$220, compared to Marbury's own shoe range, which costs as little as $15.
The 'Starbury' shoes creator said that Jordan was ambivalent to the hardships of young kids - and their parents - who are desperate to buy the expensive shoes.
Calling him greedy, Marbury said, "I'm off the kids getting killed for Jordan's. I hate that this dude won't change that."
Marbury, a former NBA point guard, played 13 seasons in the NBA for five teams, including the New York Knicks for five years. He moved to China in 2010, and now plays for the Beijing Ducks.
The 'Starbury' shoe line was launched in 2006 but folded in 2009. Marbury's shoes were the low-cost alternative to Nike's Jordan range.
He said all the shoes are made in China and are far cheaper than what the consumer is paying. "Home boy your paying 200 for Jordan's and they make them for 5 dollars. The shoes are made in China in the same places. Stay calm we coming!"
Marbury's comments come just weeks after Lebron James launched his new shoe range, which will be a similar price to the Nike Jordans.
I hate when kids cry because they can't get this dude shoes because they can't afford to buy them. It's hard on moms https://t.co/xG1Fqdp5fL— I AM PEACE STAR (@StarburyMarbury)
October 6, 2015
It's not about the shoes it's about the thought.— I AM PEACE STAR (@StarburyMarbury)
October 6, 2015
Kids in China have no clue that kids get killed for Jordan's. Either he will change it or the people will speak. https://t.co/Zu3PbOghqt— I AM PEACE STAR (@StarburyMarbury)
October 6, 2015