Mr. Throwback Brings 90s Sports Nostalgia to East Village

Vintage sportswear store attracts celebrity clientele and sports fans alike with its retro offerings

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Mr. Throwback, a sports apparel store in New York City's East Village, has found success by tapping into 90s nostalgia. Founded by Michael 'Mike' Spitz, the store started as a popup stand at the former Hell's Kitchen Flea Market before growing into a brick-and-mortar location. Mr. Throwback's nostalgic selections and unique offerings have attracted a loyal following, including celebrity customers like Spike Lee, Bruno Mars, and Timothée Chalamet.

Why it matters

In an era of mass-produced, generic sportswear, Mr. Throwback stands out by offering a curated selection of vintage and hard-to-find sports apparel that taps into consumers' desire for unique, nostalgic products. The store's success highlights the enduring appeal of 90s culture and the power of niche, community-driven retail experiences.

The details

Mr. Throwback was founded by Michael 'Mike' Spitz, who was inspired by his childhood love of basketball jerseys and sports memorabilia. Spitz started the business as a popup stand at the former Hell's Kitchen Flea Market, where his nostalgic offerings quickly gained a following. As the business grew, Mr. Throwback expanded into a proper storefront in the East Village, attracting a diverse customer base that includes both sports fans and celebrities like Spike Lee, Bruno Mars, and Timothée Chalamet.

  • Mr. Throwback started as a popup stand at the former Hell's Kitchen Flea Market.
  • The store eventually grew into a brick-and-mortar location in the East Village.

The players

Michael 'Mike' Spitz

The founder and owner of Mr. Throwback, who was inspired by his childhood love of basketball jerseys and sports memorabilia to start the business.

Spike Lee

A high-profile customer of Mr. Throwback, who visited the store after reading an ESPN feature on it.

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What they’re saying

“My store is actually based on my childhood bedroom. I just wanted to incorporate the '90s nostalgia.”

— Michael 'Mike' Spitz, Founder and Owner, Mr. Throwback (abc7ny.com)

“The next day, I'm in the back of the store and somebody opens the door. He goes, 'who's Mr. Throwback?' And I'm like, 'who's asking?' And he pulls down his mask, and it's Spike Lee.”

— Michael 'Mike' Spitz, Founder and Owner, Mr. Throwback (abc7ny.com)

What’s next

Mr. Throwback plans to continue expanding its reach and offerings, catering to the growing demand for unique, nostalgic sportswear among both sports fans and fashion enthusiasts.

The takeaway

Mr. Throwback's success demonstrates the enduring appeal of 90s culture and the power of niche, community-driven retail experiences that offer customers a unique and personalized shopping experience. The store's ability to attract a diverse customer base, including celebrities, highlights the broad appeal of its nostalgic offerings.