Jump: My Secret Journey from the Streets to the Boardroom

by Larry Miller, Laila Lacy

One of the most successful Black businessmen in the country, who has led Nike’s Jordan Brand from a $200M sneaker company to a $4B global apparel juggernaut, tells the remarkable story of his rise from gangland violence to the pinnacles of international business.

Jump tells Larry Miller’s journey from the violent streets of West Philly in the 1960s to the highest echelons of American sports and industry. Miller wound up in jail more than once, especially as a teenager. But he immersed himself in the educational opportunities, eventually took advantage of a Pennsylvania state education-release program offered to incarcerated people, and was able to graduate with honors from Temple University.

When revealing his gangland past caused him to lose his first major job opportunity, Miller vowed to keep it a secret. He climbed the corporate ladder with a number of companies such as Kraft Foods, Campbell’s Soup, and Jantzen, until Nike hired him to run its domestic apparel operations. Around the time of Michael Jordan’s basketball retirement, Nike Chairman Phil Knight made Larry Miller president of the newly formed Jordan Brand. In 2007 Paul Allen convinced Miller to jump to the NBA to become president of the Portland Trailblazers, one of the first African-Americans to lead a professional sports team, before returning to Jordan Brand in 2012.

All along, Miller lived two lives: the secret of his violent past haunted him, invading his days with migraines and his sleep with nightmares of getting hauled back to jail. More than a rags-to-riches story, Jump is also a passionate appeal for criminal justice reform and expanded educational opportunities for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people across the United States. Drawing on his powerful personal story, as well as his vast and well-connected network, Miller plans to use Jump as a launching point to help expand such opportunities and to provide an aspirational journey for those who need hope.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir, Business, Audiobook, Autobiography, Leadership

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 18, 2022

Reviews

[Kate P. from the Bachelor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I dunno, man. This is a super compelling story. It underscores some things that are really important to me. I can empathize with how keeping a huge secret can distort your personality and perception of reality. But. Maybe it was just in the writing, but it really doesn’t seem like this guy has actually personally grappled with what he did. Like, yes, incredible story and good for him for coming out, but, like, uhhhh… sure sounds like he treated his victim’s family like shit and, I dunno, writing a book like this… seems like it would have been a good opportunity to… not do this? “Blah blah blah MY SECRET!!!” Yeh but what about the other side of it?

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to this one. The writing is just ok, but the story itself is inspiring. Larry Miller, head of the Nike Jordan division and once president of the Portland Trailblazers, has been hiding the secret of his early years in incarceration—and homicide. The story itself is interesting, but it leaves the reader with hope and understanding that people can be more than their past, and that maybe it’s time to rethink our penitentiary systems. I’m glad he was willing to share his story with us.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never too late to turn your life around. Never give up!

What my 👂 heard ⤵️

I'm living this extraordinary life I built
power's on the street not in the classroom
the irony of Love Is Lost on me
solidifying my reputation for being a thorough dude
all the emotions welled up in my gut
something feels strange
I exist in a world of risk and reward
MJ used to play in Macau
come off as weak and you're done
the question hung in the air
it was jammed with headaches
he's paranoid and concerned about optics
the secret had gained too much power over me
I could tell you're gaining confidence
that Mickey mouse broke years of chilliness "joe"
if you're busy focusing on what's coming next you're not focusing on what it is you're doing now
if you give 100% to what you're currently doing then what's next will materialize

[Christie Bane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this book, because it's a super-inspirational story of someone who recovered completely from making a couple of really bad decisions as a young kid. I enjoyed the story of his childhood and his prison time much more than I enjoyed the second half of the book which was about his business career. His accomplishments are very impressive, but his career story sounded more like a journal of his business deals -- I did this with so and so, then I did this next thing with so and so. There was an underlying theme of concern that his secret would be discovered, which was fascinating because how stressful must it be to live with knowing that you killed someone once and what would all your high-level executive friends think if they knew? Eventually (towards the end of his career) he decided that he was going to tell his secret. I'm sure it felt good. This is a very good story and maybe people who are more interested in business stories will find it more interesting than I did.

[Justin Hodges · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pretty amazing story. The way Larry was able to turn his life around and the way he’s been able to influence the world is remarkable. I was not very impressed with the way the book was organized or written. It also felt weird that he didn’t talk about experiencing any guilt for his actions, but a ton of fear of being found out. The people and story are amazing, but it wasn’t my favorite book.

[Michèle Marchand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really inspiring book. It's hard to believe it's true! And easy read that anyone would enjoy. Only reason why it isn't 5 stars is because the writing style wasn't my favourite, and it seemed to leave a lot of gaps in the story.

[Daria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a raw and fascinating account of one man’s journey to be completely free. After concealing his past as a gangster and murderer, Larry Miller took the leap to put his career and reputation on the line by shedding his mask. Despite his academic achievements while incarcerated, and his career success after being released, his hidden identity haunted him for decades, causing him to suffer with nightmares and migraines. His liberation did not come until he jettisoned his secret, first with his family and friends, and then with his colleagues and professional peers. It’s an inspiring and shocking story of redemption through revelation, and triumph through truth.

[Candie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating. A testimonial to giving prisoners access to education ❤️

[Michael Tildsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I became aware of this book and its author because I happened into becoming a Coordinator for a correctional education grant, and we were looking for inspiring stories of success after prison to share with our student inmates.

I enjoyed the autobiographical narrative Larry coauthored with his daughter, detailing his early life all the way through his many successes and storied career in business with Nike, the Jordan brand, and the Portland Trailblazers. The narrative style was an easy one to read, almost inviting you in and urging you to keep moving forward through it.

Having taught student inmates for 11 years myself now, I find Larry’s story remarkable and inspiring. It is the embodiment of the advice I tried to impart on my students. Work hard, do right by others, when you are able to reach behind you from a place of strength and help the next man along. When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.

You have to find inner strength and see the error of your ways and what brought you into prison, have patience, and be willing to accept the help and opportunities offered to you when they come along. Changing yourself is almost intolerably painful because you are both the sculptor and the sculpture.

But your why has to be as big as your what. Larry did things that drove him to success out of a competitiveness to be the best at everything he did in the moment he was in. He did them for the betterment of his family and to prove himself worthy, even if only to himself, to the good life he was creating from himself after humble and harrowing beginnings.

In doing so, always striving for better and higher, Larry was ultimately led finally to let his secret go, thus the creation of this book, the letting go of a heavy burden and the opening of a fist that had been closed for four decades. I applaud his bravery and daring.

I hope that his story can reach many people in similar situations, and that the opportunities he had will come back again in order that corrections can live up to its name, correcting the paths of misled youths to productivity and compassion for their communities, rather than continue on functioning as tax-sponsored human storage.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is difficult to fathom how Larry Miller’s life has impacted American culture. As a youth he was clearly headed down the jail to prison path and indeed, wound up in prison. Then something clicked and he turned away from that path (a repentance?) and headed down a totally new path of business success (unless you wish to count extortion and the drug trade as successful business endeavors). This is truly a racially charged coming-of-age story that seems to have a positive ending. However, even Miller acknowledges that the commencement of his successful business career was predicated on a lie – his hiding of his criminal past in an initial job interview. I found this part of the story very moving in that it did not cause him to lose hope even though he was less than fully comfortable in doing so. His Islamic experience gave him a strict moral code that he felt he violated when he was unable to be honest about his criminal history. Further, his sharing of his story (he did in fact kill someone) with his daughter was another crucial element. Both he and his daughter faced the stark realization that he (Miller) in killing a young black man, was at its revelation front and center in what it means to grow up black in America. Perhaps it is stories such as his that may go a long way to improving our American racial picture.

[Sharon Murphy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have to take a step away from this book as the sheer lack of introspection is off-putting. I can't say that this will be a DNF as I might return to it, but for now I can't proceed reading. Specifically, the author comes across as a super narcissist who only has regard for himself as things impact his journey out of the Philly slums and into the world of C-suite executives and ostensibly living the dream. It sounded so compelling, and on the surface it is a very compelling story of bootstrapping, overcoming adversity, and perseverance. BUT, the big question the I wanted to see addressed was not how the telling of this story might relieve the author of the literal nightmares that his past might be found out by his contemporaries, but by what this journey has taught the author about life and redemption. Yes, he is successful but at what cost? Where is the examination of his younger self? At this point I can't even tell you what led him to become part of a gang when he had a strong family and was a straight A student. What was the missing piece? How did he feel after he killed the boy? These questions are not explored or reflected upon. There seems to be no remorse and so, I cannot give this book a good rating at this point. If I pick it back up I might change my rating.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Release, Redemption and Reformation

I found Larry Miller’s story both significant and inspiring. Miller and his co-author/daughter, Laila Lacy, detail his early life in Philadelphia, up to and during his many business successes throughout his ongoing career. Becoming the President of the Jordan Brand was not exactly a "crystal staircase" on Miller’s life path, as he was haunted by a secret from his past—a secret he lived with that he feared could blow up his life.

Finding his inner strength and using his time "away" to read and learn was key to his success. His intellect and willingness to seize the opportunities that were presented to him, coupled with the desire to change, are what turned his life around.

JUMP is a story of the releasing of a guarded secret, redemption—the act of atonement and forgiveness—and reformation, with Miller's commitment to working on criminal justice reform and with the educational systems to help provide opportunities for formerly incarcerated people.

Hopefully, his story of "success after prison" will encourage other young people who get caught up in the prison system to not give up!

[Rikesh Shah · Rating 4 out of 5]

An extraordinary life story of a man who started his journey from dark streets of Philadelphia and turned around his career to reach at the helm of business hierarchy.

The story is almost unfathomable as a real life story, and could touch me at many levels. With immense grit, belief in education, and perseverance, this man could get out of the hopeless prison life and achieved one of the most coveted position of a trusted business executive. It's an inspiration for not only the incarcerated, but all who are lost somewhere in life.

The book does justice to portray his ambiguity and sheer pain to keep his his past life secret, and at the same time, maintain a status quo as a top business executive. It also gives insight who are unfamiliar with sports business and how decisions are made.

As a person who works in corporate, I could definitely relate to some of the following 'Universal Bars':
- If you showed fear or anxiety, that was seen as a sign of weakness, and weakness were exploited.
- Knowledge makes a man unfit to be a slave, says Fredrick Douglas.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author was a seriously bad dude and the place where he grew up in Philadelphia was rife with gangs, robberies and violence. After a conviction for homicide at age 16 and with some lucky breaks with the justice system, the author embarks on a plan of self improvement through education. There is no doubt Miller is very smart, and a dedicated hard worker which brings about his highly successful career path. He is also very lucky he managed to keep his dark past a secret. Otherwise he would not have got the chances that he did.

I enjoyed the story of his life despite the rather disturbing parts in his youth. While he is talented and motivated at the highest level, there is an element of bragging that goes on in the book once he had achieved his pinnacle of success. This is a reason I have not rated the book even higher. He might have been a touch more humble, especially given how his life might have turned out.

[Steve P · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought I wanted to read Phil Knight's account of Nike (Shoe Dog), but Larry Miller's autobiographical account of the rise of the Jordan brand found its way to me first. I'm so glad it did.

From the worst streets of West Philadelphia to prison to the Nation of Islam to the president of the Portland Trail Blazers, Miller weaved a course that was anything but linear. And he carried a deep, dark secret for five decades - that he had killed another Black youth when he was in his teens.

Now more than ever, he advocates for prison education programs and second chances for incarcerated men. The societal cost of locking people away forever is too much. We can do better. Larry Miller is living, breathing proof.

If you've ever bought or worn Air Jordans or the Jordan brand, you need to read this book.

[Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's nothing like a story of redemption.

From the streets of inner city Philadelphia to President of the Jordan brand & a senior executive position at Nike, Larry Miller shares his personal journey growing up in an area ravaged by gang violence, going to prison for two felony convictions, & finding his way back to become a college-educated business executive seeking ways to help other contribute to society after serving time incarcerated.

Inspirational & real, he offers his perspective on why some neighborhoods in the inner city deal with generational violence, how education played such a key role in his ability to rehabilitate & restart after serving out his time, & what types of programs we ought to consider in the U.S. to create the right incentives & provide the tools for people with criminal backgrounds to move forward productively.

I highly recommend this read!

[Larisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent memoir about Larry Miller…one of the most influential Black business professionals in the nation, one of the founders of Nike’s Jordan brand, innovator, served as the President of the Portland Trail Blazers, and worked at a number of Fortune 500 companies.

Enjoyed learning about his philanthropy, how he gives back, and highlighting the need to reinstate education release programs in the prison system, which serves him well. He said it so well.. “The prison system in the US is a business. It’s always been a business. The money that’s spent on warehousing people is $ that could be invested in a more humane and productive way, and that could have a much more positive impact on people’s lives, and on society as a whole.”

[Don · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are we redeemable by good acts? Does a life lived well in service to others redeem one from the actions of our youth? Larry Miller, in this highly personal memoir, struggles with the question and tries to find peace after living with the secret of his teenage crime for forty years. He is unflinching in looking at his past crimes and earnest in attempting to reconcile these crimes with the many blessings that followed. He forces us to confront the question that if someone like him can achieve great success even with his past, why should we deny anyone the opportunity to live a flourishing life once they have atoned for their crimes and done their time.

[Debra Hendrix · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book started out good for me. It’s an incredible story of how you can turn your life around and end up doing good for yourself and your community. But,it was poorly written and seemed a bit disjointed. By the end of his story I felt like it was a lot of name dropping and bragging about all these important and powerful people he was hanging out with. And him saying he was always so “lucky”. That got old for me. Where was the remorse in the killing of that boy? It seemed like he was just relieved that he didn’t go to prison for murder. Do we know if he reached out to his family? After all these years? Maybe even some compensation?

[Polly Fraga · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The story is pretty amazing but the writing was so-so. The fact that a 16 year old who murdered someone, went to jail, made other mistakes, overcame significant hurdles and wound up being such a successful business man is mind-boggling.
I would have liked to hear more about his personal life, especially his marriage to Carol (I felt there was an untold story there). A lot of the writing was tangential and repetitive though. I suspect Larry Miller loved the idea of having his daughter write the book with him but it was probably not the best choice for the book.

[Lindsay Birckhead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living in Philly, this book gives me a tour of the other view points and life experiences people have daily. I have worked with so many people in the same situations hat Larry has lived. Prison reform is needed and his story shows what can be done when we support and facilitate positive learning opportunities. Very well done and I hope this book allows him to do things for the prison system like he did for Jordan Brand at Nike. Fascinating.

[Nick Stubbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this memoir. It is the story of an incredibly successful black man who began his career in the streets as a gangster, a young life that began in prison. Fast forward to now and he is the chairman of Jordan Brands and served as the president of the Oregon Trailblazers for 5 years.

I thought it was a little cut and dry which would be my only complaint, though, you can tell he cares about community and his past life has haunted him ever since.

[Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

- An eye for an eye, makes the world blind: as revenge for friends taken place, Philadelphia grew more and more violent during Miller's youth

- Social economic factor was a major theme in Philadelphia's decline in the 60s: as there are less and less opportunities, people turn into drugs and street life

[Donna Scoggins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Your Past Does Not Hinder Your Purpose

What a story! I’m so glad Larry was able to finally share the ups and downs of his life. His testimony can only help those struggling to understand you can always positively move forward. I appreciate all he continues to do to improve the lives of the incarcerated and the young.

[David King · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty interesting story of Miller’s rise from a life of crime to the highest boardroom. He rightfully calls for a return to funding for education opportunities of prisoners. Based on his experience, Miller extols university education, but after having listened to Mike Rowe for years, I’d also be equally pleased to see training in the trades.

[Alysia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this should be required reading for legislators and others who refuse to set up systems that acknowledge that 95% of imprisoned people will eventually get out. There is a lot of talent locked up that might be ready for a fresh start .. eventually ... and opportunities to prepare for life afterward just makes sense.

[Jesse Cadena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Couldn't stop reading this book when getting my hands on it. Miller's story is relatable and gives much hope to whoever reads his story. He proves that the beginning of your story doesn't have to end that way. His hard work and the willingness to change is transferable to anyone looking to do the same. I recommend reading the book.

[Suzanne Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this real life story of overcoming the odds. There were a lot of local references to my area and school which was fun. Throughout reading the book I kept thinking he was glossing over his worst crime, although at the end he seems to address it. I guess it is a good reflection of how he had to compartmentalize his life to succeed.

[Divyesh Sheth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Larry Miller tells his story from streets of Philadelphia to prison to the half way house and eventually as the president of the Air Jordan brand as part of Nike in an authentic and heartfelt manner. He talks about preparing and getting ready for opportunities and grabbing them with both hands when they present themselves.

[Tim McLean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely amazing story! It’s an ultra inspiring testimony that needs to be shared with as many people as possible, particularly at risk youth and young adults. The story is very well written, excellently organized, and brilliantly paced. Kudos to Larry Miller and Laila Lacy, for documenting this incredible story!