In a surprise move, NBC said Monday that it has hired Michael Jordan to contribute to its NBA coverage, which tips off later this year.
Jordan, of course, is widely considered among the greatest, if not the greatest, NBA player of all time, leading the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships.
NBC announced Jordan’s hire during its upfront presentation in New York, after composer John Tesh took the stage for a live performance of the NBA on NBC title theme “Roundball Rock.” Jordan appeared via a video message to announce his return as a special contributor.
“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” said Jordan in a statement. “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.”
Jordan tied up his laces more than 20 years ago, though he owns a minority stake in the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, and owns a a professional racing team called 23XI currently competing in NASCAR. He has never been a regular contributor to NBA coverage before.
“Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself,” added NBC Sports president Rick Cordella. “We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage.”
Jordan’s hiring by NBC continues a trend of networks looking to hire the best players to shore up their sports broadcast teams. TNT Sports secured the services of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky in 2021, and last year Fox debuted NFL legend Tom Brady in its broadcast booth.
