Jordan Brand announced that it has reached a deal with baseball legend Derek Jeter to remain with the brand, creating the role of ‘Captain’ within the iconic brand’s training category and family of baseball athletes.

The brand will also continue Jeter’s signature RE2PECT line with training and lifestyle shoes and apparel, set to hit Jordan retail outlets in Spring 2017.

Jeter will play an active role in defining the future of his RE2PECT line, choosing colorways and style designs as well as consulting on comfort and fit.

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“Derek is one of the hardest workers I have ever met,” said Michael Jordan. “His work ethic was evident in the way he played the game of baseball and it continues to drive the way he approaches his business career after retirement. We are excited to continue our relationship with him and for what he brings to the brand as we continue to grow.”

In his new role as the Captain of Jordan Training, Jeter will bring his values of hard work and dedication to the team concept to life for athletes around the world. These hallmarks of Jeter’s legendary baseball career will provide the foundation for Jordan Training products, services and live events.

Jeter will also assume the role of Captain for Jordan Baseball. In this role, the 14-time MLB All-Star will help the brand identify and recruit baseball athletes who embody his values on the field. Jeter will be a key figure working with Jordan Brand Sports Marketing and Michael himself to build the Jordan family of baseball atheltes.

“I am thrilled to continue my relationship with the Jordan Brand,” said Jeter. “I spent my entire baseball career trying to be the best player I could be and I am excited to help the next generation reach that goal through Jordan Training and Baseball.”

The RE2PECT campaign was launched around Jeter’s final season with a limited-edition apparel line, one of the most successful in Jordan’s history. A follow-up commercial honoring his career achievements as a player, teammate and baseball icon earned a Cannes Lions Advertising Award for the RE2PECT campaign.

Michael Jordan had for a long time been the only retired athlete on Nike’s roster. Kobe Bryant recently became the second. LeBron James recent long-term contract will also extend beyond his playing years.

Photos courtesy Jordan Brand