Basketball icon Michael Jordan is making a high-profile return to television as NBC announced he will join its National Basketball Association coverage as a special contributor starting this fall. The announcement was made during the network’s annual Upfront presentation on Monday.
In a video message aired during the event, Jordan expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC. The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project. I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October.”
While Jordan’s exact role remains under wraps, sources indicate he will not be a regular fixture but will appear at select moments throughout the season. This new collaboration with NBC marks his first major network partnership since he retired from professional basketball in 2003.
NBC recently secured an 11-year deal with the NBA to broadcast games on NBC Sports and Peacock, bringing the league back to the network where many of its legendary moments unfolded in the 1990s. NBC Sports President Rick Cordella said last month that the network aims to recapture some of that classic nostalgia, bringing back elements like the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme by John Tesh and player introductions designed to showcase the in-arena atmosphere.
Alongside Jordan, the new NBC broadcast lineup will feature Jamal Crawford, Reggie Miller, Carmelo Anthony, Mike Tirico, and Noah Eagle. The broadcast will also include an AI-generated voice of the late Jim Fagan, further connecting past and present NBA eras.
Since his playing days, Jordan has turned his focus to business ventures, notably owning the Charlotte Hornets and NASCAR team 23XI Racing. Now, he’s set to bring his insight and star power to a new generation of NBA fans as the league’s media landscape enters a bold new phase.
